Rural  Veterinary  Secrets 

BY 

A.  H.  Hartwig,  M.  D.  C. 


A  farmer's  Text  Book 
for  ready  reference 

and 
The  secret  of  success- 
fully applying  first  aid 
and  home  remedies  to 
ailing  farm    animals. 


Watertown,  Wisconsin 
1921 


Copyright  1921 
by  A.  H.  Hartwig 
Watertown,  Wis. 


Advocate  Publishing  Company 

Printers  and  Publishers 

Milwaukee,  Wis. 


CONTENTS 

CHAPTER  PAGE 

I.    Diseases  Common  to  the  Respiratory  Organs       -      -  17 

II.    Diseases  Common  to  the  Circulatory  Organs       -       ■  35 

III.  Diseases  Common  to  the  Digestive  Organs       -        -  39 

IV.  Diseases  Common  to  the  Reproductive  Organs        -  59 
V.    Diseases  Common  to  the  Liver  and  Kidneys       -      -  85 

VI.    Diseases  Common  to  the  Brain  and  Nervous  System  87 

VII.    Practical  Aid  in  Difficult  Parturition         -        -        -  93 

VIII.    Common  Diseases  of  the  Skin 107 

IX.    Contagious  and  Infectious  Diseases        -        -        -  119 

X.    Wounds  and  Fractures 137 

XI.    Diseases  Common  to  the  Muscles  and  Extremities  145 

XII.    Common  Farm  Operations 173 

XIII.  Diseases  Common  to  Swine  and  Sheep      -       -      -  185 

XIV.  Diseases  Common  to  Poultry 209 

XV.    Practical  Application  of  Medicines  and 

Home  Remedies 213 

XVI.    Miscellaneous -  221 

Index  —  Glossary  and  Topical  Index        -        -       -  233 


AUTOBIOGRAPHY 

Dr.  A.  H.  Hartwig,  the  author  of  "Rural  Veterinary  Secrets,"  was 
born  on  a  stock  and  dairy  farm  in  Watertown,  Dodge  Co.,  Wisconsin, 
where  he  had  a  good  opportunity  to  study  the  natural  habits  and  wants 
of  ailing  farm  animals. 

He  received  his  preliminary  education  in  the  public  schools  and 
Northwestern  College  of  Watertown,  Wis.  At  the  age  of  seventeen  he 
expressed  the  desire  to  study  veterinary  science  and  become  a  veterinary 
physician  and  surgeon.  However,  as  his  services  could  not  be  spared 
on  the  farm  at  that  time,  he  was  obliged  to  abandon  the  idea,  at  least 
for  the  time  being.  When  twenty  years  of  age  he  entered  the  short 
course  in  Agriculture  of  the  University  of  Wisconsin,  under  the  direc- 
tion of  Dean  Henry,  it  being  the  second  and  third  year  of  the  existence 
of  that  course.  Dr.  V.  T.  Atkinson,  the  first  State  Veterinarian  of 
Wisconsin,  gave  a  course  of  lectures  and  demonstrations  in  veterinary 
science.  These  lectures  and  demonstrations  proved  of  particular  in- 
terest to  the  young  agricultural  student,  and  again  he  was  inspired  with 
the  determination  to  take  up  this  interesting  study,  but  neither  the  time 
nor  the  means  to  further  attend  college  could  be  spared. 

After  concluding  his  university  studies  he  returned  home  and  de- 
voted most  of  his  time  to  breeding  draft  horses,  coach  horses,  and 
dairy  cattle.  In  1892  he  made  a  tour  through  Europe.  There  he  vis- 
ited the  various  veterinary  colleges  in  the  Old  World.  On  his  return 
he  brought  with  him  an  importation  of  Oldenburg  coach  horses.  His 
experience  in  stock  breeding  convinced  him  that  a  knowledge  of  vet- 
erinary medicine  and  surgery  would  be  of  great  benefit  to  himself  and 
his  community.  He  again  determined  to  become  a  veterinarian  and 
then  actually  entered  the  Chicago  Veterinary  College,  from  which  he 
was  graduated  in  the  year  1895. 

After  graduation  he  entered  upon  his  practice  as  a  veterinarian 
in  Watertown,  Wisconsin,  and  adjacent  community,  which  he  suc- 
cessfully continued  for  twenty-seven  years.  During  this  time  he  held 
various  important  positions  in  connection  with  his  profession.  He  was 
president  of  the  Wisconsin  Society  of  Veterinary  Graduates;  secretary 
of  the  Wisconsin  State  Veterinary  Society;  State  Veterinarian  of  Wis- 
consin ;  Veterinary  Editor  of  "Hoard's  Dairyman" ;  publisher  and  pro- 
prietor of  "The  Farmer's  Veterinary  Advisor,"  and  at  the  present  time 
is  Veterinary  Inspector  for  the  United  States  Bureau  of  Animal  In- 
dustry. While  editor  of  "Hoard's  Dairyman"  he  discovered  the  Air 
Treatment  for  milk  fever,  which  is  now  used  the  world  over  and  is 
saving  the  lives  of  thousands  of  valuable  farm  animals. 

The  experience  thus  acquired  he  is  now  giving  to  his  fellow 
farmers  and  stock  owners  in  the  form  of  "Rural  Veterinary  Secrets." 


Department  of  Surgery 


at  Dr.  Hartwig's  Veterinary  Hospital 


PREFACE 

My  purpose  in  presenting  "Rural  Veterinary  Secrets",  to  the 
farmer  and  other  owners  of  domesticated  animals  shall  be  to  educate 
them  to  use  home  remedies  intelligently  whenever  they  are  applicable 
in  case  of  emergency,  and  to  properly  comfort  and  care  for  the  patient 
till  medical  aid  can  be  summoned ;  to  teach  my  readers  to  use  the  right 
remedy  in  the  right  place  in  case  of  emergency,  instead  of  employing 
anything  and  everything  that  might  be  suggested  by  the  casual  ob- 
server; to  avoid  the  misapplication  of  drugs,  which  so  often  leads  to 
the  destruction  of  valuable  farm  animals ;  and  to  give  professional  ad- 
vice to  those  who  are  in  need,  as  well  as  those  who  seek  professional 
knowledge  on  those  subjects. 

In  order  that  my  readers  may  readily  understand  what  I  am  to 
present  to  them,  I  will  employ  common  farmer  language,  avoiding 
technical  expressions  as  much  as  possible.  I  shall  prescribe  the  most 
practical  and  effective  remedies  for  each  particular  case,  regardless  of 
who  might  be  the  manufacturer  thereof.  The  remedies  prescribed 
shall  be  those  which  I  have  found  the  most  successful  and  practical 
during  my  twenty-seven  years  of  practice. 

I  have  decided  to  place  the  knowledge  and  experience  obtained  in 
these  twenty-seven  years  of  continued  and  uninterrupted  practice  as 
a  veterinarian  before  my  readers  in  concise  form,  boiled  down  for  quick 
and  ready  reference,  in  this,  my  first  edition  of  "Rural  Veterinary 
Secrets." 

A.  H.  HARTWIG,  M.  D.  C. 
Watertown,  Wisconsin,  July  1st,  1921. 


TO 
THE  AMERICAN  SOCIETY  OF  EQUITY 

In  testimony  of  the  author's  high  esteem  and  appreciation  of  the 
principles  and  service  to  the  public  of  the  society,  lending  me  inspira- 
tion and  initiative  in  my  profession  and  this  undertaking,  I  dedicate 
this  work. 

A.  H.  HARTWIG,  M.  D.  C. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Respiratory 
Organs 

ACUTE  NASAL  CATARRH 
(Rhinitis,  Acute  Coryza). 

An  acute  catarrh  of  the  air  passages  of  the  head.  It  may  occur 
as  a  primary  affection  or  may  be  secondary  to  another  disease. 

The  common  predisposing  cause  is  cold.  Catarrh  is  most  fre- 
quent during  the  changeable  weather  of  the  late  fall  and  early 
spring.     The  exciting  cause  is  undoubtedly  infection. 

Nearly  all  of  the  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract  are  accom- 
panied by  catarrh,  as  are  specific  infectious  diseases,  such  as 
strangles,  influenza,  hog-cholera,  glanders. 

SYMPTOMS 

The  general  condition  of  the  patient  is  usually  somewhat  dis- 
turbed ;  it  seems  stupid,  languid,  and  shows  slight  fever.  The  mu- 
cous membrane  of  the  nose  is  swollen  and  reddened  and  at  first 
drier  than  normal ;  later  an  irritant,  watery  discharge  appears, 
which  in  a  day  or  two  becomes  turbid  and  more  profuse.  In  the 
earlier  stages  the  patient  sneezes  frequently  and  rubs  its  nose 
against  objects.  The  nasal  discharge  dries  and  forms  crusts  at  the 
openings  of  the  nostrils.  In  exceptional  cases  small,  round,  super- 
ficial erosions  are  noted  on  the  mucous  membrane,  which  usually 
heal  in  a  few  days.  In  severe  cases  there  is  conjunctivitis  present. 
If  the  larynx  is  involved  there  is  cough  ;  if  the  pharynx,  difficulty 
in  swallowing.  The  submaxillary  lymph  glands  in  the  horse  are 
slightly  swollen. 

The  course  is  usually  rapid  and  the  termination  favorable.  The 
condition  in  ordinary  cases  disappears  in  seven  to  ten  days. 

TREATMENT 

The  acute  catarrh  seldom  requires  treatment.  Protecting  the 
patient  from  draughts  and  dust  is  all  that  is  necessary  in  the  aver- 


18  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


age  case.  When,  however,  the  discharge  is  profuse  or  the  patient 
shows  fever,  a  douche  consisting  of  a  solution  of  one  tablespoonful 
of  common  salt  dissolved  in  two  quarts  of  tepid  water  may  be 
injected  into  the  nostrils  and  allowed  to  flush  the  anterior  air  cham- 
bers once  or  twice  daily.  Inhalations  of  volatile  substances  are  of 
value.  Turpentine  or  benzoin  (1  to  5  per  cent  in  form  of  steam) 
may  be  tried.  The  crust  on  the  nostrils  may  be  greased  with  lard 
or  vaseline. 


BLEEDING  FROM  THE  NOSE,  HEMORRHAGES 

(Epistaxis) 


In  some  families  of  horses  hemorrhages  are  an  inherited  pre- 
disposition. In  such  cases  the  bleeding  occurs  without  apparent 
cause.  It  may  follow  over-exertion  as  in  the  case  of  the  race  horse. 
It  may  also  be  caused  by  passing  tubes,  sponges,  and  other  instru- 
ments up  into  the  nostrils.  In  forcibly  ejecting  dust  and  foreign 
matter  from  the  nose,  horses  sometimes  induce  hemorrhage.  Frac- 
tures of  the  facial,  nasal  and  maxillary  bones  and  tumors  in  the 
nose  may  be  followed  by  nose  bleeding. 


SYMPTOMS 


It  is  usually  not  difficult  to  determine  the  origin  of  the  hem- 
orrhage, but  to  find  the  cause  may  require  a  most  careful  examina- 
tion of  the  patient.  Pulmonary  hemorrhages  are  characterized  by 
a  bright  red,  foamy  nasal  discharge  emitted  from  both  nostrils  and 
accomplished  by  cough,  dyspnea,  and  weak  pulse.  When  placing 
your  ear  to  the  chest,  however,  you  will  hear  a  rattling  sound  with 
each  breath  of  the  patient.  If,  however,  the  hemorrhage  is  from  the 
nose,  these  rattling  sounds  will  not  be  noticed,  although  some  of 
the  blood  may  be  inspirated  into  the  lungs  and  confuse  the  layman 
as  to  the  proper  location  of  the  hemorrhage.  In  hemorrhages  from 
the  stomach  the  blood  is  also  discharged  through  the  nose  in  the 
case  of  the  horse  and  ox,  but  is  more  or  less  clotted,  brown  in 
color,  of  acid  reaction,  and  mixed  with  food  particles.  In  the  case 
of  the  hog  and  dog  the  blood  from  stomach  hemorrhages  is  vomited 
throusrh  the  mouth. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  ^SECRETS  19 


TREATMENT 

The  patient  should  be  kept  in  a  cool  and  quiet  place.  If 
hemorrhages  are  from  the  nose  or  anterior  air  chambers,  inject 
up  into  the  nostrils  the  juice  of  several  lemons.  This,  with  rest  and 
quiet,  will  arrest  the  hemorrhage  temporarily.  Then  give  a  tea- 
spoonful  of  Ferritone  (Elk's)  for  an  adult  in  moist  food  three  times 
daily.  This  will  increase  the  fibrin  and  red  corpuscles  of  the  blood, 
which  makes  a  firm  clot  and  heals  completely  the  ruptured  vessel, 
besides  strengthening  the  walls  of  the  blood  vessels.  If  the 
hemorrhage  is  in  the  lungs  or  stomach,  the  injections  of  lemon 
juice  are  not  so  effective  and  may  be  omitted,  but  the  Ferritone 
should  be  given  regularly  as  above  directed  and  the  treatment 
continued  for  a  week  or  two  after  the  hemorrhage  has  stopped. 


NASAL  POLYPI 


Polypus  in  the   Nostril. 

These  are  wart-like  tumors  growing  in  the  nostril  as  shown  in 
the  accompanying  illustration.  The  only  remedy  is  to  remove  them 
with  a  small  wire  ecraseur,  w^hich  is  especially  designed  for  this 
purpose.  The  operation  is  simple  and  usually  has  no  dangerous 
after  effects. 


20  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CATARRHAL  LARYNGITIS 

Catarrhal  laryngitis  is  one  of  the  commonest  diseases  of  horses 
and  cattle.  It  frequently  assumes  an  enzootic  form,  being  very 
prevalent  during  the  changeable  weather  of  spring  and  fall.  The 
disease  may  be  primary  or  secondary. 

The  causes  of  primary  laryngitis  are :  Chilling,  inhalation  of 
irritant  dust,  gases,  ingestion  of  fermenting  foods  (brewer's  grains, 
distillery  slops,  potato  residue),  continued  bellowing  of  cattle, 
throat  latch  of  bridle  too  tight,  and  primary  infections. 

Secondary  laryngitis  accompanies  many  of  the  infectious  dis- 
eases, especially  influenza  and  strangles  of  the  horse,  tuberculosis 
of  the  ox,  cholera  of  swine,  and  verminous  bronchitis  of  sheep.  A 
spread  ,of  inflammation  from  neighboring  organs  (pharynx,  trachea) 
may  induce  laryngitis.  The  causes  of  chronic  catarrhal  laryngitis 
are  the  same  as  those  of  the  acute  form,  the  irritant  acting  mildly 
but  repeatedly  or  persistently. 


SYMPTOMS 

A  dominant  symptom  of  laryngitis  is  a  dry,  harsh  cough  which 
the  patient  seeks  to  suppress.  It  is  especially  noticeable  when  the 
animal  is  brought  out  into  cold  air  or  given  a  cold  drink  of  water. 
Excitement  also  induces  cough.  The  larynx  is  sensitive  to  pressure, 
which  may  bring  about  a  spell  of  coughing.  In  some  patients 
hoarseness'is  evident.  On  listening  to  the  larynx  rough  and  some- 
times whistling  tones  are  heard,  which  tend  to  diminish  in  intensity 
toward  the  chest.  Nasal  discharge  is  usually  present.  If  the 
pharynx  is  also  involved  there  will  be  difficulty  in  swallowing.  The 
lymph  glands  of  the  submaxillary  region  are  swollen  and  sensitive. 
Except  in  secondary  laryngitis  the  pulse  and  temperature  remain 
about  normal.  There  is  difficulty  in  breathing  only  when  there  is 
marked  swellins:  of  the  mucosa. 


DIAGNOSIS 

The  diagnosis  depends  upon  the  presence  of  cough,  sensitive- 
ness of  the  larynx,  mild  fever,  and  the  negative  evidence  adduced 
from  a  thorough  examination  of  the  lungs.  Secondary  laryngitis 
may  be  distinguished  from  primary  forms  by  the  high  temperature, 
general  depression  of  the  patient  and  symptoms  of  the  primary 
disease. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  21 


In  acute  catarrhal  laryngitis  the  course  is  usually  six  to  ten 
days,  ending  in  complete  recovery.  Neglected  cases  may  become 
chronic  and  last  for  months,  causing  persistent,  obstinate  cough, 
but  usually  no  further  symptoms. 


TREATMENT 

The  patient  should  be  allowed  fresh  air  (not  too  cold)  free 
from  drafts,  dust  and  stable  gases.  If  the  weather  permits,  exer- 
cise in  the  open  should  be  allowed.  In  mild  attacks  horses  may  be 
employed  at  light  work,  provided  they  are  protected  against  high 
wind  or  drenching  rains.  The  food  should  be  laxative  (roots, 
grass)  and  free  from  dust. 

Hot  applications  to  the  throat  are  valuable.  During  the  early 
stages  inhalations  of  medicated  steam  are  of  service.  See  directions 
for  steaming  in  acute  nasal  catarrh  and  give  the  same  medical  treat- 
ment. If  you  suspect  the  cause  to  be  of  an  infectious  nature,  separate 
the  well  from  the  sick  and  thoroughly  disinfect  the  stable. 


CROUPOUS  LARYNGITIS 

A  disease  of  the  larynx  and  laryngeal  mucosa  in  which  the 
pharynx  and  trachea  are  also  involved.  This  is  rather  rare,  occur- 
ring mostly  in  sheep  and  cattle  and  more  rarely  in  horses  and  swine. 
It  is  caused  usually  by  inhaling  irritating  gases,  smoke,  strong 
fumes  of  disinfectant,  and  sometimes  from  driving  through  dust 
to  increase  the  weight  of  wool. 


SYMPTOMS 

In  the  beginning  the  symptoms  are  the  same  as  in  catarrhal 
laryngitis,  except  that  the  patient  becomes  more  rapidly  emaciated 
and  loses  appetite.  There  is  also  a  swelling  and  sensitiveness  of 
the  throat. 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  consists  of  the  same  medicinal  agents  and  in- 
halations of  medicated  steam  as  in  catarrhal  laryngitis,  except  that 
a  tracheotomy  tube  might  be  used  in  addition  in  the  early  stages 
of  the  disease. 


22 


BUBAL  VETEBINABY  8ECBETS 


Horse 


ith   chronic  Oezena  that  was  operated  at   the   Fort   Atkinson 
Veterinary  Hospital,  June  11,  1910. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  23 


NASAL  CATARRH   (Oezena) 

This  form  almost  invariably  follows  some  other  disease  involv- 
ing the  respiratory  tract,  such  as  bad  teeth  with  filling  of  the 
frontal  or  maxillary  sinuses  of  the  head  with  pus.  It  may  also 
accompany  glanders,  tumors  of  the  nostrils,  animal  parasites, 
chronic  or  verminous  bronchitis. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  principal  symptom  is  a  nasal  discharge,  which  varies 
greatly  in  quantity  and  character.  The  quantity  of  discharge  is  not 
always  the  same,  being  more  profuse  at  times  owing  to  environ- 
ments, weather  conditions,  etc.  In  character  the  discharge  may  be 
mucous,  purulent,  blood-streaked,  or  contain  caseated  lumps.  If 
due  to  decayed  teeth  or  bones  of  the  head,  it  will  have  a  very 
offensive  odor.  The  maxillary  lymph  glands  may  become  enlarged, 
but  usually  do  not  adhere  to  the  jaw.  If  the  sinuses  of  the  head 
become  filled  with  pus  there  is  usually  a  marked  swelling  of  the 
parts  affected. 


TREATMENT 

Before  resorting  to  treatment  of  this  ailment  we  must  ascertain 
the  cause  and  remove  it.  A  careful  examination  of  the  teeth  must 
first  be  made  and  if  any  decayed  ones  are  found  they  must  be 
extracted.  Then  the  nostrils  should  be  carefully  examined  in  search 
of  nasal  tumors.  If  neither  is  found,  explore  the  frontal  and  maxil- 
lary sinuses  by  sounding  with  gentle  taps  of  one  or  two  fingers  on 
the  suspected  parts.  If  the  sinuses  are  not  filled  there  will  be  a 
hollow  sound,  while  if  filled  with  pus  they  will  appear  solid.  If 
one  or  more  of  these  sinuses  be  filled  it  will  be  necessary  to  cut 
a  hole  through  the  bone  and  remove  the  pus  surgically. 

If  neither  of  the  above  is  found,  a  nasal  douche,  with  a  table- 
spoonful  of  salt  to  a  gallon  of  warm  water,  may  be  resorted  to  once 
daily.  If  the  discharge  from  the  nostrils  has  a  fetid  odor,  five  grains 
of  permanganate  of  potash  may  be  dissolved  in  a  gallon  of  warm 
water  and  used  as  a  douche  instead  of  the  salt  solution.  Iron 
tonics,  such  as  tincture  chloride  of  iron  or  dried  sulphate  of  iron, 
should  be  given  in  food  twice  daily  in  connection  with  some  bitter 
stomachic.  For  this  purpose  there  is  nothing  more  effective  than 
a  large  teaspoonful  of  Ferritone,  in  moist  food  three  times  daily. 


24  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


It  acts  directly  upon  the  blood  and  lessens  the  discharge  from  the 
nasal  membrances.  Ferritone  is  a  new  and  almost  specific  remedy 
for  all  nasal  discharges  now  sold  by  all  first  class  druggists. 


CATARRHAL  BRONCHITIS 

Bronchitis  means,  or  is  understood  to  be  an  inflammation  of  the 
large  bronchi  (air  tubes).  Bronchiolitis  is  used  to  express  an 
inflammation  of  the  capillary  bronchi. 

Bronchitis  occurs  either  as  a  primary  or  secondary  disease. 
It  is  very  common  among  all  domesticated  animals,  particularly 
during  the  spring  and  fall,  when  it  may  become  enzootic  among 
horses  and  cattle.  It  may  occur  alone,  but  is  usually  associated 
with  tracheitis  and  laryngitis  (catarrh  of  the  air  passages),  or  on 
the  other  hand  it  may  attend  pneumonia  (bronchopneumonia). 

Several  different  forms  of  catarrhal  bronchitis  are  recognized. 
When  the  exudate  is  fluid  and  abundant,  moist  bronchitis  or  blen- 
orrhea  of  the  bronchi  is  spoken  of.  If  the  exudate  is  rather  limited 
and  not  so  fluid  a  dry  bronchitis  exists.  A  fetid  bronchitis  develops 
from  a  bacterial  decomposition  of  the  exudate.  From  the  stand- 
point of  course,  catarrhal  bronchitis  may  be  either  acute  or  chronic, 
and  from  the  causes  a  verminous  and  a  mycotic  bronchitis  may 
be  distinguished. 

The  causes  are  usually  refrigeration  (changeable  weather), 
inhalation  of  mechanical  and  chemical  irritants  (dust,  smoke,  chemical 
fumes),  aspiration  of  fluids,  such  as  liquid  medicines  unskillfully  ad- 
ministered, blood,  pus  or  solid  matter,  such  as  food  which  gains  access 
to  the  windpipe,  especially  when  the  pharynx  is  paralyzed.  Certain 
animal  parasites  and  bacteria  are  also  causes. 

Secondary  bronchitis  occurs  with  most  of  the  infectious  diseases 
affecting  the  respiratory  tract  (influenza,  strangles,  tuberculosis, 
hog-cholera). 


SYMPTOMS 

The  characteristic  symptoms  of  acute  catarrhal  bronchitis  are 
cough,  which  at  first  is  short,  dry  and  painful,  but  later  with  the 
accumulation  of  liquid  exudate  becomes  looser  and  less  painful. 
Nasal  discharge  is  present  and  during  the  act  of  coughing  bronchial 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  25 


slime  is  ejected  through  the  mouth  and  nose.  In  the  early  stages 
especially  the  respirations  are  increased.  Percussion  is  normal  and 
on  listening  rales  are  heard.  Rales  may  be  absent  in  the  early 
stages,  but  will  appear  gradually  about  the  second  or  third  day. 
The  character  of  the  rale  will  depend  upon  the  size  of  the  bronchus 
involved  and  the  consistency  of  the  exudate.  In  the  larger  bronchi, 
provided  the  exudate  is  rather  fluid,  the  rale  is  of  the  character  of 
bursting  large  bubbles,  while  in  the  smaller  bronchi  the  rales  are 
much  finer  and  of  a  crackling  character.  If  the  bronchial  mucosa 
is  much  swollen,  narrowing  the  lumen  of  the  bronchi,  whistling, 
piping  or  hissing  tones  may  be  heard.  As  a  rule  the  animal  shows 
fever  in  the  early  stages  (104  to  106  degrees  F.),  but  usually  within 
two  or  three  days  the  temperature  drops.  With  the  continuance  of 
the  fever  the  pulse  frequency  increases. 

CHRONIC  CATARRHAL  BRONCHITIS  usually  develops 
from  the  acute  form.  It  may  occur,  however,  as  a  symptom  of 
chronic  heart  and  lung  disease.  It  is  frequently  associated  with 
chronic  pulmonary  emphysema  or  seen  to  accompany  such  chronic 
infectious  diseases  as  tuberculosis,  glanders,  or  verminous  pneu- 
monia. Generally  speaking,  chronic  bronchitis  leads  to  irreparable 
injury,  not  only  of  the  walls  of  the  bronchi,  but  also  of  the  neighbor- 
ing lung  tissue.  The  symptoms  of  chronic  bronchitis  are  much  the 
same  as  those  of  the  acute,  except  that  the  condition  is  feverless 
and  suffers  many  periodical  increases  of  violence.  The  general 
condition  of  the  patient  may  not  be  much  disturbed,  and  the  only 
evidences  of  the  disorder  are  chronic  cough,  difficulty  in  breathing, 
and  nasal  discharge,  which  is  often  foamy  and  white  in  appearance. 
Obviously,  if  chronic  bronchitis  is  a  symptom  of  an  infectious  dis- 
ease like  tuberculosis  or  glanders,  the  symptoms  which  typify 
these  conditions  will  be  associated  with  those  of  bronchitis.  In 
practice  chronic  bronchitis  is  most  commonly  met  with  in  horses 
suft'ering  from  "heaves."  It  also  occurs  frequently  in  dairy  cows 
in  the  Eastern  States,  especially  during  raw,  damp. weather.  The 
principal  symptoms  are  a  persistent  cough  and  slight  nasal  dis- 
charge, which  is  usually  wiped  off  with  the  tongue.  There  are  no 
constitutional  symptoms.  The  course  is  benign  except  in  neglected 
cases. 

In  healing,  the  acute  form  usually  terminates  in  two  to  three 
weeks.  When  the  smaller  bronchi  become  involved,  the  course  is 
more  prolonged  and  is  apt  to  lead  to  bronchopneumonia  and  death. 
Death  may  also  result  from  pulmonary  edema. 

Chronic  bronchitis  may  last  for  months  or  years,  depending 


26  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


upon  the  cause.    As  a  rule  the  patient  becomes  anemic,  cachectic, 
and  finally  death  results  from  lack  of  nutrition. 


DIAGNOSIS 

The  diagnosis  of  bronchial  catarrh  is,  as  a  rule,  not  difficult. 
The  presence  of  the  characteristic  rales  are  evidence  enough,  espe- 
cially when  taken  into  consideration  with  the  other  symptoms  and 
course  of  the  disease.  It  is  sometimes  impossible  to  determine 
whether  the  bronchitis  is  primary  or  secondary.  Generally,  how- 
ever, when  bronchitis  is  secondary  to  some  acute  infectious  disease 
the  high  temperature  which  the  patient  shows  is  indicative.  When 
associated  with  a  chronic  infection  a  thorough  clinical  examination 
of  the  patient  will  usually  reveal  the  presence  of  a  primary  disease 
(tuberculosis,  tuberculin  test;  glanders,  various  tests). 


TREATMENT 

The  patient  should  be  kept  in  a  light,  clean,  well  ventilated 
place  and  every  attention  given  to  the  hygiene  of  the  skin.  A 
horse  should  be  covered  with  a  light  blanket,  and  the  legs,  if  cold, 
wrapped  in  soft  bandages.  If  labored  breathing  is  very  marked, 
the  chest  should  be  rubbed  freely  with  Elk's  Electric  Cream.  The 
food  should  be  laxative  (bran,  oats,  grass,  carrots,  turnips,  etc.). 
The  bowels  should  be  kept  open  by  giving  two  tablespoonfuls  or 
Bovolax  in  moist  food  twice  daily.  If  the  cough  is  dry,  inhalations 
of  medicated  steam  (see  steaming)  may  be  resorted  to.  The  follow- 
ing prescription  has  proven  very  successful. 


Take  of:     Syrup  of  white  pine — 1  pint. 

Fluid  extract  belladonna — 1  dram 


Febris  powders  (National) — 2  ounces. 

Mix  and  give  one  ounce  every  two  hours.  Febris  powders 
might  be  given  alone  in  the  absence  of  the  other  two,  provided  they 
cannot  be  obtained.  These  should  be  given  in  teaspoonful  doses 
three  times  daily. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  27 


PLEURITIS 

Pleuritis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  pleura.  It  is  nearly  always 
a  secondary  condition  in  animals. 

Pleuritis  affects  all  animals,  but  principally  the  horse.  In  the 
horse  it  is  usually  a  symptom  of  infectious  fibrinous  pneumonia ; 
in  the  ox  of  tuberculosis,  contagious  pleuropneumonia  and  hem- 
orrhagic septicemia,  and  in  swine  most  frequently  of  so-called  swine 
plague.  Pleuritis,  however,  may  occur  unattended  by  pneumonia, 
as  is  frequently  observed  in  horses. 

Pleuritis  in  animals  is  always  due  to  infection.  Cold,  which 
was  believed  to  be  the  most  potent  etiological  factor,  is  now  con- 
sidered merely  predisposing  (pleuritis  in  sheep  following  shearing; 
exposure  of  horses  to  cold  wind  and  rain).  The  micro-organisms 
which  produce  pleuritis  are  many.  Rarely  is  pleuritis  a  primary 
disease — it  is  most  commonly  seen  in  practice  accompanying  dis- 
eases of  the  lungs  (pleuropneumonia).  The  micro-organisms  caus- 
ing pleuritis  may  enter  as  follows  :  (1)  Through  penerating  thoracic 
wounds ;  (2)  through  deep  contusions  on  the  chest  wall,  especially 
if  rib  fractures  be  present  (kicks,  blows,  falls)  ;  (3)  from  disease  foci 
in  the  lung,  which  are  in  contact  with  the  pleura;  (4)  via  blood 
and  lymph  micro-organisms  of  certain  specific  diseases ;  notably 
those  which  affect  principally  the  respiratory  tract.  The  latter  may 
also  invade  the  pleura  and  cause  inflammation  thereof  (influenza, 
fibrinous  pneumonia,  swine  plague,  hemorrhagic  septicemia,  acute 
rheumatism).  It  may  happen  that  the  dominant  lesions  are  in  the 
pleura,  in  which  case  primary  pleuritis  is  spoken  of  (pleurisy  of 
the  horse  without  pneumonia). 

As  predisposing  factors  may  be  mentioned:  Chilling  (cold), 
over-exertion,  long  railway  transports,  and  acute  diseases  of  the 
respiratory  tract  (laryngitis).  Subacute  and  chronic  pleuritis  may 
accompany  tuberculosis,  glanders,  contagious  pleuropneumonia  of 
the  ox,  tumors  (spread  of  sarcoma  or  carcinoma  via  contiguity  of 
tissue),  or  metastasis,  and  animal  parasites. 

SYMPTOMS 

Depending  upon  whether  it  is  acute  or  chronic,  primary  or 
secondary,  the  symptoms  of  pleuritis  will  vary  greatly.  In  mild 
circumscribed  and  in  chronic  pleuritis  the  symptoms  are  so  vague 
that  the  condition  is  rarely  recognized  clinically.  In  the  acute  form, 
which  is  at  times  primary,  they  are  as  follows : 


28  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


(1)  First  stage  (congestion)  :  The  onset  is  sudden.  The  patient 
stops  eating,  seems  stupid,  and  may  show  pains  simulating  mild 
colic.  There  is  often  a  marked  chill  during  which  the  temperature 
rises  rapidly  to  104  to  106  degrees  F.  The  muscles  of  the  thorax 
tremble.  The  pulse  is  frequent  (70  to  80),  small  and  hard.  The 
respirations  are  accelerated  (25  to  40)  and  of  the  abdominal  type. 
If  the  pain  is  great,  and  the  diaphragm  not  involved,  the  ribs  may 
be  rolled  forward  and  held,  breathing  being  performed  by  the  flanks. 
The  patient  may  not  show  cough  or  nasal  discharge. 

Sounding  the  thorax  in  this  stage  pains  the  patient  and  causes 
coughing.  Sensitiveness  is  sometimes  shown  on  palpating  the  inter- 
costal spaces,  especially  in  the  region  of  the  elbow.  If  the  exam- 
iner's hand  be  laid  against  the  thorax,  marked  vibrations  may  be 
felt.  Unless  the  lung  is  involved  in  this  stage,  there  is  no  change 
in  the  percussion  sound. 

The  respirations  seem  shorter  than  normal  and  of  interrupted, 
catching  character.  On  listening,  a  rubbing,  grating,  frictional 
sound  is  heard  with  the  respirations.  The  animal  is  usually  stiff 
and  when  turned  "moves  as  one  piece"  in  a  rigid,  wooden  fashion. 

(2)  Second  stage  (effusion)  :  In  this  stage  the  clinical  picture 
is  a  good  deal  modified.  The  patient  finds  more  difficulty  in  breath- 
ing and  the  character  of  the  breathing  is  changed,  depending  upon 
the  quantity  of  exudate  in  the  chest.  If  a  considerable  amount  of 
fluid  forms  rather  rapidly  in  the  thorax  (25  to  40  quarts)  at  inspira- 
tion the  ribs  are  rolled  forward  at  a  maximum  and  at  expiration, 
which  is  accomplished  by  a  double-pumping  movement  of  the  flanks, 
the  lumbar  region  is  elevated  and  the  anus  protruded,  the  manner 
of  performing  the  respirations  much  resembling  that  noted  in  pul- 
monary emphysema.  A  groove  is  formed  along  the  costal  cartilages 
at  each  expiration.  The  nostrils  are  dilated  and  often  flapping. 
Percussion :  As  high  as  the  fluid  in  the  chest  extends,  a  marked 
flatness  with  resistance  under  the  hammer  is  noted.  The  flat  area 
extends  across  the  ribs  in  a  straight  horizontal  line.  Above  this 
line  subdued  resonance  is  heard.  Changing  the  position  of  the  body- 
will  shift  the  horizontal  line.  (Only  feasible  in  small  animals.) 
When  effusion  occurs  the  frictional  sound  disappears  (in  some 
instances  it  may  still  be  heard  above  the  area  of  flatness),  and,  as 
a  rule,  no  respiratory  sounds  can  be  determined  below  the  horizontal 
line.  Above  it  the  vesicular  murmur  is  harsh ;  tubular  breathing 
is  frequently  present. 

The  heart  beat  is  weakened  in  this  stage  and  may  often  be 
heard  more  distinctly  on  the  right  than  on  the  left  side  of  the  chest. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  29 


The  pulse  is  rapid  and  softer  than  in  the  first  stage.  The  tempera- 
ture is  very  irregular.  When  effusion  takes  place  it  usually  drops 
to  nearly  normal,  but  may  rise  again  later.  Its  character  is  decid- 
edly intermittent  or  even  remittent.  Very  high  fever  speaks  for 
purulent  pleuritis.  General  condition  :  In  acute  pleuritis  the  patient 
often  remains  standing  during  the  entire  attack  (horse).  If  the 
patient  lies  down  in  the  first  stage,  due  to  pain,  it  rests  on  the 
well  side,  or  if  the  condition  is  bilateral,  on  the  sternum.  In  the 
stage  of  effusion,  the  patient  lies  on  the  diseased  side.  In  pleuritis 
there  is  a  tendency  to  swell  on  pedent  portions  of  the  body  (under 
chest,  etc.).    A  total  lack  of  appetite  persists. 

Mild  cases  make  a  very  rapid  recovery  and  are  often  not  rec- 
ognized during  life.  The  effusion  forms  rapidly ;  in  three  to  four 
days  the  thorax  may  be  half  filled;  the  resorption  of  the  exudate 
however,  takes  place  gradually  and  may  require  two  to  three  weeks, 
or  even  several  months,  during  which  time  the  life  of  the  patient 
is  in  jeopardy.  The  more  serious  the  effusion,  the  more  likely  and 
rapid  the  resorption.  With  much  fibrinous  exudate  present,  ad- 
hesions between  lung  and  thoracic  wall  are  frequent.  These  adhe- 
sions usually  persist  and  cause  the  patient  to  be  ever  afterward 
short-winded.  Chronic  pleuritis  is  incurable.  Death  in  acute 
causes  may  follow  from  asphyxia  or  exhaustion  in  two  to  three 
weeks. 


TREATMENT 

The  drugs  used  in  the  treatment  of  this  disease  are  few  and 
simple.  If  the  fever  is  high  and  needs  to  be  checked,  give  a  tea- 
spoonful  of  National  Febris  Compound  in  drinking  water  three 
times  daily.  If  the  fever  is  not  controlled,  increase  the  frequency 
of  the  dose  to  every  three  or  four  hours.  This  also  has  a  dieretic 
eft'ect,  which  is  very  essential  in  this  treatment. 

If  breathing  is  very  painful,  the  pains  can  be  relieved  by  a 
hypodermic  injection  of  two  to  three  grains  of  morphine,  or  still 
better,  a  tablespoonful  of  National  Anodyne  given  every  hour  with 
a  dose  syringe  until  relieved. 

When  the  thoracic  cavity  fills  excessively  with  fluid,  the  same 
must  be  removed  by  means  of  a  trocar  and  canula.  The  latter  had 
better  be  left  to  a  competent  veterinarian. 


30  RURAL  VETERiyARY  SECRETS 


INFLAMMATION  OF  THE  LUNGS  (Pneumonia) 

Pneumonia  exists  in  various  forms,  the  details  of  which  will 
be  too  technical  for  the  average  farmer  and  stockman  to  under- 
stand. We  will,  therefore,  discuss  pneumonia  in  its  general  term, 
giving  its  general  appearance,  symptoms  and  treatment. 

Pneumonia  is  an  inflammation  of  the  lung.  The  existence  of 
pneumonia  as  a  primary  disease  in  animals  is  open  to  question. 
At  any  rate,  it  has  not  been  proven. 

SYMPTOMS 

The  onset  of  the  disease  is  usually  sudden.  Without  warning 
the  patient  is  seized  with  fever,  which  in  the  case  of  the  horse  may 
reach  104  to  106  degrees  F.  in  a  few  hours.  The  patient  is  stupid, 
languid,  and  loses  appetitie.  In  some  cases  a  pronounced  chill 
ushers  in  the  disease  symptoms.  The  fever  is  of  the  continuous 
type,  remaining  up  for  seven  to  nine  days,  when  it  drops  rapidly 
to  normal,  or  on  the  third  or  fourth  day  may  begin  to  gradually 
decline,  reaching  normal  in  four  to  eight  days  following.  Cough 
is  short,  painful,  and  frequently  restrained.  At  first  it  is  dry,  later 
moist  in  character.  Nasal  discharge  is  not  always  present,  espe- 
cially in  continuously  stabled  horses.  In  some  cases,  during  the 
second  stage,  a  rusty  brown  ("prune  juice")  discharge  occurs 
which  may  last  only  twenty-four  to  forty-eight  hours.  In  the  third 
stage  a  yellow-colored  discharge  may  appear.  The  pulse  at  first 
is  not  much  affected,  but  as  the  disease  progresses,  due  to  cloudy 
swelling  of  the  heart,  its  frequency  is  increased  to  60  or  80,  or  even 
higher.  Quite  often  the  pulse  remains  high  after  the  fever  has  gone 
down.  The  respirations  are  accelerated  early  and  the  patient 
breathes  with  distended  nostrils.  The  mucous  membrane  of  the  eye 
in  severe  cases  often  assumes  a  spotted  mahogany  color.  The 
sounds  (on  pressure  with  the  fingers)  vary  with  the  stage  of  the 
disease.  In  the  earliest  stage  (congestion)  there  is  little  appre- 
ciable change;  in  the  second  stage  a  flat  sound  is  emitted.  The 
sound  begins  about  the  second  day  and  is  retained  three  to  five 
days.  During  the  third  stage  the  sound  becomes  drum-like.  The 
area  of  dullness  is  usually  confined  to  the  lower  portion  of  one  lung, 
its  upper  limits  often  describing  an  upward  curved  line.  Upon 
listening,  fine  crackling  sounds  (like  hair  rubbed  between  the  fin- 
gers) are  heard  in  the  first  stage.  These  sounds  are  usually  present 
for  the  first  twenty-four  hours,  then  pass  away.  In  the  second 
stage  there  is  either  no  respiratory  sound  audible  or  tubular  breath- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  31 


ing  is  heard.  In  the  third  stage  moist  rales  are  heard  (the  return 
rale).  The  general  condition:  Varies  greatly  with  the  case.  In 
mild  attacks  the  appetite  may  be  retained  and  the  mind  little  per- 
turbed. In  severe  cases  there  is  no  appetite  while  the  fever  is  on 
and  the  animal  is  very  stupid  and  languid.  Horses  usually  do  not 
lie  down  until  the  fever  drops.  Small  animals  and  even  ponies  lie 
down  most  of  the  time  during  the  disease,  and  if  only  one  lung  is 
affected,  on  the  diseased  side.  The  urine  is  scanty  and  high  colored 
until  the  fall  of  the  fever,  when  its  specific  gravity  drops,  and  the 
quantity,  voided  frequently,  greatly  increases. 


DIAGNOSIS 

Pnuemonia  may  be  distinguished  from  pleuritis  by  listening, 
and  sounding  with  the  finger.  In  cases  complicated  with  pleuritis 
dift'erentiation  may  be  impossible.  However,  pleuritis  is  usually 
bilateral,  the  upper  margin  of  the  zone  of  dullness  on  percussion 
is  horizontal  and  the  resistence  under  the  hammer  pronounced.  In 
pleuritis  there  is  a  further  tendency  for  swelling  to  form  in  pendent 
parts  of  the  body.  Cough  is  usually  absent  in  pleuritis ;  present  in 
pneumonia.  A  test  puncture  of  the  thorax  may  be  made  in  doubt- 
ful cases. 


COMPLICATIONS 

(1)  Heart  weakness  due  to  cloudy  swelling.  The  heart  beat  is 
fast,  arythmic,  and  palpitating.  The  pulse  may  be  weak  and  runs 
about  76.  The  patient  is  weak,  may  be  cyanotic,  superficial  veins 
distended. 

(2)  Pleuritis :  A  common  complication,  leading  to  eft'usion 
in  the  chest,  displacement  of  the  heart,  characteristic  difficulty  in 
breathing.      (See  Pleuritis.) 

(3)  Gangrene  of  the  lung:  May  develop  during  convalescence. 
The  temperature  again  rises,  the  patient  continues  to  lose  flesh,  and 
the  expirium  assumes  a  sweetish,  fetid  odor. 

(4)  Further  but  less  common  complications  are :  Nephritis 
(albumen  in  urine),  jaundice  (catarrh  of  duodendum),  tendovagin- 
ities  (leg-swelling  and  lameness),  founder  (laminities),  cerebral  and 
meningeal  symptoms.  Purpura  hemorrhagica  may  occur  during 
convalescence. 


32  RURAL  VETERIXARY  SECRETS 


COURSE 

The  usual  course  is  typical,  ending  in  recovery  in  two  weeks. 
In  some  cases,  especially  in  old  horses,  cattle  and  swine,  the  course 
may  be  much  shorter  (larval  or  abortive  type).  Death  may  occur 
suddenly  during  convalescence  from  heart  failure.  If  pleuritis  com- 
plicates the  pneumonia,  the  course  is  much  prolonged.  It  may  lead 
to  death,  or  adhesions  (lung  to  thoracic  wall)  may  cause  permanent 
dyspnea  ("heaves"). 

Chronic  induration  of  the  lungs  is  a  common  termination  fol- 
lowing certain  outbreaks.  It  is  charcterized  by  the  continuation 
of  the  fever  and  dyspnea  after  the  usual  period  of  convalescence  has  ' 
passed.  The  patient  is  generally  left  short-winded.  Roaring  may 
sometimes  follow  an  attack  of  fibrinous  pneumonia.  Pericarditis 
is  a  rarer  complication. 

The  prognosis  is  good  in  typical  and  uncomplicated  cases.  The 
behavior  of  the  heart  is  of  importance  during  the  attack.  A  con- 
tinued high  pulse  is  dangerous  to  the  patient.  The  extent  of  the 
area  involved  has  much  to  do  with  the  outcome  of  the  case.  If 
confined  only  to  the  lower  portion  of  one  lung,  the  danger  is  not 
so  great  as  when  the  upper  part  of  the  lung  is  also  involved,  or  if 
both  lungs  are  diseased.  When  pleuritis  complicates  the  case  the 
prognosis  is  naturally  less  favorable. 

TREATMENT 

The  patient  should  be  placed  in  a  light,  clean,  and  well  venti- 
lated place.  If  feasible,  keep  the  case  out-of-doors  as  much  as 
possible,  guarding  it,  of  course,  against  wind  and  rain.  Use  only 
light  covering  (in  horses).  The  legs  may  be  bandaged  (use  Derby 
bandages  with  cotton  underneath.  Removing  the  bandages  once 
daily  and  rubbing  the  legs  well  before  re-applying  is  helpful.  The 
horse-patient  should  be  groomed  well  each  day.  Feed  any  easily 
digested  food  which  the  patient  can  be  coaxed  to  eat.  Good  clean 
oats  over  which  a  little  sugar  has  been  sprinkled  is  often  tempting 
to  the  appetite.  Give  only  small  quantities  at  a  time.  Before  feed- 
ing syringe  out  the'  mouth  with  clean  water.  If  obtainable,  fresh 
grass  is  very  palatable  and  nutritious.  A  few  handfuls  over  which 
is  strewn  a  little  salt  is  often  eaten  with  avidity.  The  hay  should 
be  bright  and  free  from  dust.  Feed  about  6  pounds  daily,  divided 
into  three  feds.  Roots  (carrots,  beets)  and  bran  mashes  are  rec- 
ommended (some  horses  do  not  like  bran).  Eggs  and  milk  may 
be  given  if  appetite  is  entirely  gone.     Keep  pure  water  constantly 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  33 


before  the  patient,  and  where  it  can  be  reached  without  undue 
exertion,  rectal  and  artificial  feeding  may  be  resorted  to  in  patients 
unable  to  swallow  or  without  any  appetite. 

SURGICAL — ^Puncturing  the  thorax  with  a  sterile  trocar,  and 
permitting  the  instrument  to  penetrate  the  inflamed  lung,  was  prac- 
ticed extensively  in  the  army  during  the  World  War.  The  opera- 
tion was  performed  irrespective  of  the  existence  of  exudate  in  the 
chest  cavity.  The  results  seem  to  have  been  satisfactory  enough 
to  warrant  further  experiment.  It  appeared  most  beneficial  in  cases 
of  delayed  resolution. 

DRUGS — In  all  forms  of  pneumonia  it  is  best  not  to  rely  too 
much  on  drugs,  especially  large  quantities  and  many  varieties,  such 
as  are  too  often  resorted  to.  It  is  very  important  to  keep  the 
bowels  open.  Give  one  to  two  tablespoonfuls  of  Bovolax  in  moist 
food  or  water  twice  or  three  times  daily,  as  the  case  may  require. 
To  keep  the  heart  strong  two  ounces  of  brandy  may  be  given  every 
two  hours.  The  fever  can  be  controlled  by  giving  a  teaspoonful  of 
National  Febris  Powders  in  drinking  water  every  three  hours.  In 
severe  cases  where  breathing  is  difficult  and  painful,  the  chest 
should  be  rubbed  freely  with  Electric  Cream  (National)  twice  daily. 
This  will  draw  the  inflammation  to  the  exterior,  thus  relieving  the 
inflamed  lugs  very  materially. 


ROARING 

Roaring  may  be  defined  as  an  unsoundness  characterized  by 
difficulty  in  inhaling  and  cough  due  to  paralysis  of  the  left  recurrent 
nerve.  The  condition  is  always  chronic  and  can  be  relieved  in  about 
80  per  cent  of  the  cases  by  operation. 

From  a  practical  standpoint  recurrent  paralysis  may  be  classed 
as  primary  and  secondary. 

The  causes  of  primary  paralysis  are  not  understood.  It  seems 
as  if  heredity  plays  a  part,  since  stallions  and  mares  which  are 
roarers  transmit  the  tendency  to  their  progeny.  The  condition  does 
not  develop  until  about  the  fourth  to  sixth  year.  As  a  rule  only  the 
left  side  is  afifected,  although  exceptions  are  noted. 

Secondary  recurrent  paralysis  may  be  a  sequel  to  influenza, 
strangles,  and  dourine,  or  it  may  follow  an  attack  of  forage  poison- 
ing, poisoning  with  lead,  more  rarely  goitre  or  direct  injury  to  the 
nerve  itself. 


34  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


SYMPTOMS 

Usually  in  primary  cases  the  disease  comes  on  gradually.  It 
is  at  first  but  slightly  developed,  the  patient  only  emitting  a  noisy 
sound  when  exercising.  As  a  rule,  if  the  horse  be  at  rest,  no  signs 
of  the  disorder  are  noticed.  If  the  upper  rings  of  the  trachea  be 
pinched,  a  prolonged,  hoarse  throat  cough  is  heard.  In  many 
instances,  however,  cough  is  absent.  It  is  sometimes  possible  to 
cause  the  patient  to  emit  a  peculiar  grunt  if  it  is  struck  a  sudden, 
unexpected  blow  with  the  hand  on  the  side  of  the  chest.  The  prin- 
cipal symptom  of  roaring,  however,  is  the  audible  laryngial  sound 
emitted  during  and  increased  by  exercise.  The  quality  of  the  sound 
suiTers  many  modifications  from  a  whistle  to  a  pronounced  roar, 
which  in  some  animals  can  be  heard  a  distance  of  several  yards. 
Pressing  the  throat  with  the  index  finger  increases  the  sound.  In 
well  developed  cases  sufficient  exercise  can  produce  interrupted 
breathing.  By  compressing  the  nostrils  to  one-half  their  normal 
dilation  the  sound  is  temporarily  diminished.  Generally  the  roaring 
sound  ceases  after  five  to  ten  minutes  rest,  but  returns  again  dur- 
ing exercise.  In  mild  cases  it  stops  as  soon  as  the  animal  is  "pulled 
up"  after  a  hard  gallop. 


DIAGNOSIS 

'i'lic  examination  of  the  patient  should  be  made  under  motion. 
The  liorse  may  be  ridden,  galloped  on  a  long  line,  or  led  behind 
a  buggy.  In  some  mild  cases  tlic  animal  may  suppress  the  sound 
by  extending  the  head.  To  axoid  this  the  head  should  be  dra\vn 
in,  the  neck  held  well  arched.  The  use  of  tlie  laryngoscope  is  of 
great  value  in  diagnosis. 

The  course  of  primary  roaring  is  chronic.  Due  to  the  wasting 
away  of  the  muscles  of  the  vocal  cords  on  the  left  side,  the  condition 
grows  worse  with  time.  ATany  roaring  horses  may' be  used  for  light, 
slow  work,  while  others  are  practically  worthless  for  service. 

Some  cases  of  secondary  roaring  (forage  poisoning,  laryngitis, 
strangles)  recover  spontaneously  in  four  to  six  months.  About  80 
])cr  cent  can  either  be  relieved  or  cured  by  surgical  interference. 


TREATMENT 

Thenifjsl  successful  treatment  consists  in  the  removal  of  the 
laryngeal  saccule  of  the  affected  side. 


CHAPTER  II. 

Diseases  of  the  Circulatory  Organs 

TRAUMATIC  PERICARDITIS  OF  THE  OX 

An  inliammation  of  the  heart  sac  caused  by  foreign  bodies. 
This  is  one  of  the  most  common  sporadic  diseases  of  the  ox.  Witli 
the  possible  exception  of  tuberculosis  of  the  heart  sac,  it  is  the 
)nost  common  disease  of  the  heart.  It  occurs  not  only  among  dairy 
cattle,  but  also  beef  cattle,  especially  on  farms  where  hay  baling  is 
practiced,  pieces  of  baling  wire  being  picked  up  and  swallowed.     . 

The  frequency  with  which  foreign  bodies  (needles,  wire,  etc.) 
are  found  in  the  reticulum  (second  stomach),  the  close  proximity 
of  the  reticulum  to  the  pericardium  (heart  sac),  and  the  marked 
contractions  of  the  compartment  of  the  stomach,  are  the  most  im- 
portant factors  in  the  termination  of  this  commrm  condition. 

SYMPTOMS 

In  traumatic  pericarditis  of  the  ox,  the  heart  symptoms  arc 
usually  preceded  by  those  of  traumatic  indigestion.  Inquiry,,  there 
fore,  should  always  be  made  into  the  past  history  of  the  patient  in 
this  regard.  The  cardinal  symptoms  are  as  follows:  1st.  In  the 
early  stages  stiffness  and  disinclination  to  move.  The  patient  is 
forced  to  exercise,  the  abdominal  type  of  respiration  predominating. 
2nd.  The  pulse  is  rapid  and  irregular.  3rd.  A  pronounced  undula- 
tion of  the  jugulars  is  seen.  4th.  Later  edematous  swellings  appear 
under  the  throat,  neck,  brisket,  and  chest.  5th.  Percussion  is 
usually  painful,  the  animal  wincing  and  grunting  when  the  chest 
is  struck  over  the  heart  region.  An  increased  area  of  cardiac  dull- 
ness may  be  determined  in  cattle  if  not  too  fat.  6th.  On  ausculta- 
tion, provided  no  fusion  has  taken  place,  a  friction  tone  like  that 
lieard  in  pleuritis,  but  occurring  with  the  heart  beat,  is  heard.  If 
the  heart  sac  is  filled  with  fluid  and  gas,  metallic  tinkling  tones 
modify  the  normal  heart  sounds,  which  are  muffled  and  distant. 
7th.  The  patient  usually  shows  rise  in  temperature,  but  the  fever 
is  generally  mild.  Not  infrequently  the  clinical  symptoms  of  trau- 
matic pericarditis  are  entirely  overlooked,  the  first  intimation  of 
any  trouble  appearing  when  the  patient  drops  over  dead.    The  gen- 


36  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


eral  condition  of  the  patient,  due  to  the  loss  of  appetite  and  attend- 
ing infection  or  intoxication  grows  bad.  The  patient  emaciates, 
becomes  anemic,  weak,  and  may  suffer  from  diarrhea. 

The  course  in  traumatic  pericarditis  is  usually  a  prolonged  one, 
the  condition  lasting  often  several  weeks  or  even  months.  Exacer- 
bations and  remissions  are  very  common.  As  a  general  rule,  how- 
ever, there  is  a  slow  but  steady  decHne.  The  disease  may  assume 
the  form  of  a  pyemia  (pus  absorption)  leading  to  enlargement  of 
the  joints,  lameness,  etc.  Pneumonia  and  pleurisy  and  gastrointes- 
tinal catarrh  are  frequent  complications.  Death  may  occur  at  any 
time  during  the  disease  from  the  foreign  body  penetrating  the  heart 
muscle  or  from  injury  to  the  coronary  blood  vessels,  causing  fatal 
hemorrhage.  The  patient  may  also  die  from  the  attending  sapremia. 
Occasionally  cases  occur  in  which  great  improvement  in  the  con- 
dition is  noted,  the  patient  gaining  in  flesh,  appetite  and  strength. 
Usually,  however,  the  improvement  is  only  temporary.  Rarer  still 
are  those  instances  where  a  spontaneous  recovery  follows  the  escape 
of  the  foreign  body  through  an  abscess  to  the  outside  world. 

HOW  THE  DISEASE  IS  RECOGNIZED 

While  in  typical  and  advanced  cases  the  diagnosis  is  easy,  trau- 
matic pericarditis  in  the  earlier  stage  may  be  exceedingly  difficult 
to  recognize.  Eber  recommends,  where  the  condition  is  suspected 
and  fever  exists,  to  give  acetanilid  (3  ounces)  daily.  This  reduces 
the  temperature  but  not  the  pulse,  which  remains  high  (100  to  120) 
if  pericarditis  is  present.  In  doubtful  cases  an  explorative  puncturt- 
of  the  pericardium  will  determine  the  presence  of  fluid. 

TREATMENT 

As  nearly  all  cases  are  fatal,  the  immediate  slaughter  of  tlu> 
animal  is  recommended.  In  very  valuable  pregnant  animals  an 
effort  to  prolong  Ufe  may  be  made  by  the  use  of  such  thugs  as 
digitalis  (J4  ounce);  caffein  (1  dram),  or  oil  camphor  (1  ounce) 
subcutaneously.  Stimulants  (alcohol  and  ether)  are  also  in  order. 
In  Europe  puncturing  the  pericardium  with  a  trocar  has  been 
employed. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  37 


AZOTURIA 

(Often  mistaken  for  inflammation  and  cong:estion  of  the 
kidneys) 

Azoturia  is  purely  a  blood  disease  of  a  plethoric  or  hypernu- 
tritious  nature.  In  other  words,  the  blood  is  overloaded  with  nutri- 
tion, bringing  about  the  unnatural  conditions  and  strange  actions 
of  the  horse  after  he  has  gone  a  mile  or  two  from  home  in  the 
best  of  spirits.  The  blood  in  this  condition  is  naturally  thicker 
and  slow  to  return  to  the  heart,  which  is  very  active.  This  tardy 
return  flow  causes  a  dilation  of  the  return  blood  vessels,  most  of 
which  lie  close  to  the  main  nerve  trunks.  As  the  vessels  expand, 
the  nerve  trunks  receive  extra  pressure,  which  partially,  if  not 
entirely,  shuts  off  the  impulse  and  brings  about  either  partial  or 
complete  paralysis  of  the  parts  involved.  These  are  usually  the  hind 
quarters,  due  to  the  fact  that  they  are  further  away  from  the  heart. 
You  will  also  notice  a  marked  swelling  of  the  muscles  involved  ; 
as  they  become  very  hard  and  sensitive.  The  kidneys,  in  an  en- 
deavor to  assist  nature,  will  absorb  some  of  the  blood  from  these 
congested  regions,  which  naturally  turns  the  urine  to  a  dirty  red 
or  brown  color  and  causes  the  layman  to  believe  that  the  kidneys 
are  at  fault. 

SYMPTOMS 

This  trouble  usually  follows  a  period  of  enforced  idleness  with 
a  good  appetite  and  rich  food.  As  soon  as  you  notice  that  the  horse 
begins  to  lag  behind  and  perspire,  you  should  take  a  warning  that 
something  is  wrong.  You  will  next  notice  him  knuckle  over  in 
one  of  his  pastern  joints.  Finally,  it  attacks  both  hind  quarters, 
although  on  rare  occasions  you  may  find  it  in  the  front  quarters. 


TREATMENT 

The  horse  should  be  stopped  and  brought  to  the  nearest  barn, 
where  he  should  be  warmly  blanketed  after  the  swollen  muscles 
have  been  thoroughly  rubbed  with  National  Electric  Cream  to  keep 
the  blood  moving  and  stimulate  the  nerve  endings  to  again  become 
active  and  continue  so.  The  horse  should  at  once  be  given  two 
ounces  of  neutrogen  in  about  eight  ounces  of  water.  This  may 
be  repeated  in  two  hours,  when  the  external  application  should 
be  repeated.    Absolute  rest  is  necessary.     Do  not  attempt  to  drive 


38  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


the  horse  before  six  or  eight  hours  or  he  may  suffer  a  relapse, 
which  very  often  proves  fatal.  The  above  treatment  brings  quick 
relief  and  may  be  repeated  until  the  animal  is  able  to  pursue  its 
journey.  Then  give  a  teaspoonful  of  Sangnitone  Compound  in 
moist  food  three  times  daily  to  get  the  blr)r)d  in  natural  rondition 
and  prevent  a  re-attack. 


BLOOD  TROUBLE 

This  disease  usually  makes  its  presence  know^n  by  the  appear- 
ance of  pimples,  scabs,  blotches  and  eruptions  of  the  skin  of  horses, 
cattle  and  all  domestic  animals.  These  eruptions  are  due  to  a  humor 
in  the  blood  and  must  be  reached  through  the  circulation.  Give 
a  teaspoonful  of  National  Sanguitone  Compound  in  moist  food  twice 
or  three  times  daily.  This  ma}^  be  followed  after  a  week  or  two 
with  a  tablespoonful  of  Fowler's  solution  of  arsenic  given  twice 
daily.  Usually  the  latter  is  not  necessary  as  the  Sanguitone  Com- 
pound acts  very  promptly. 


NAVEL  DISEASE  (Of  Colts  and  Calves) 

Newly  born  colts  and  calves  are  often  affected  with  SAVollen 
and  infected  navels.  The  infection  usually  takes  place  shortly  after 
birth.  The  newcomer  comes  in  contact  with  unclean  substances 
in  the  stall,  which  are  easily  absorbed  through  the  navel  cord  and 
bring  about  a  sensitive  swelling  and,  in  some  cases,  suppuration. 
It  is  not  uncommon  for  a  colt  to  become  swollen  in  one  or  more  of 
its  joints  and  show  abscesses  in  any  part  of  the  body  after  surli 
an  infection. 

TREATMENT 

I'rcvcniion  is  better  than  cure.  When  a  coll  or  call  is  born 
the  navel  cord  should  be  disinfected  with  a  solution  of  Lotio^ 
Vita,  which  is  especially  adapted  for  this  purpose,  'ihis  should 
invariably  be  done  as  a  precaution  whether  or  not  you  c.\])<.ct 
infection.  If  the  disease  has  become  prevalent  in  your  barn,  you 
should  vaccinate  the  newly  born  as  soon  as  possible  after  it  is 
dropped  with  Polyvalent  Bactrins.  The  latter  often  prove  beneficial 
as  a  curative  after  infection  has  taken  place. 


CHAPTER  in. 


Diseases  Common  to  the  Digestive 
Organs 

FEEDING  SICK  ANIMALS 


It  must  be  borne  in  mind  that  food  or  drink  should  not  br 
forced  on  sick  stock ;  that  w  hat  food  is  presented  should  be  tempting. 
To  be  so  it  must  be  fresh,  all  traces  of  the  last  offering  having 
been  removed ;  in  fact,  if  an  animal  does  not  clean  up  its  allowance 
within  a  reasonable  time,  the  materials  should  be  removed  so  as 
to  avoid  tainting-  the  feed  box.  The  same  rule  applies  to  the  drink- 
ing water. 

T.axativc  food  is  indicated  in  sickness,  with  few  exceptions; 
in  fact,  those  cases  laid  up  on  account  f)f  wounds  need  laxativr 
food  and  a  reduction  in  quantity.  Variety  counts  for  a  great  deal 
with  the  sick  animal.  For  such  purposes  boiled  food,  bran  mashes, 
grass,  carrots,  potatoes,  small  green  wheat,  oats,  corn,  etc.,  may 
be  used  in  limited  quantities.  Milk  and  eggs  are  also  of  value, 
hut  will  have  to  be  given  in  a  drench  as  a  rule.  The  BRAN  MASTI 
should  be  made  as  follows :  Scald  a  pail,  throw  out  the  water. 
l)ut  in  a  gallon  of  bran  and  a  tablespoonful  of  salt,  add  two  to  three 
pints  of  boiling  water,  depending  on  the  consistency  desired,  mix 
well,  and  cover  up  for  15  minutes,  when  it  may  be  placed  before 
the  patient.  A  tablespoonful  or  two  of  powdered  ginger  added 
to  a  bran  mash  makes  a  nice  feed  for  a  tired  or  over-driven  horse, 
and  should  be  given  before  oats  are  ofTered.  Horses  will  rarely  burn 
themselves;  they  do  not  care  for  sloppy  mashes.  To  make  linseed 
(flaxseed)  tea  take  one  pound  of  the  seed  and  boil  in  four  to  six 
quarts  of  water  until  the  grains  are  soft.  The  linseed  tea  and  bran 
may  be  combined  with  benefit.  Hay  tea — run  good  hay  through 
the  cutting  box  and  half  fill  a  pail  with  it,  then  fill  up  with  boiling 
water,  let  stand  until  cold  and  give  the  clear  fluid.  Raw  linseed 
oil  is  often  given  in  the  feed  in  quantities  of  from  one-quarter  to 
one-half  pint  daily;  it  is  very  valuable  in  "Heaves,"  and  puts  a 
gloss  on  the  hide,  besides  acting  mildly  on  the  bowels. 


40  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


DISEASE  DUE  TO  MISTAKES  IN  FEEDING 

DISTENTION  OF  THE  PAUNCH.  Bumcn  occurs  in  sheep 
and  cattle  due  to  getting-  an  o\erfeed,  say  from  getting  loose  at 
grain,  either  in  the  barn  or  the  field,  dry  fodder  and  no  succulent 
feed  (such  as  roots  or  silage),  from  stoppage  of  the  bowel  move- 
ment. The  symptoms  are  similar  to  those  shown  in  bloating,  only 
that  the  swelling  pits  on  pressure  (on  the  left  side)  and  tapping 
with  the  fingers  does  not  give  the  drum-like  sound  as  heard  in  the 
preceding  disease;  chewing  the  cud  (rumenation)  stops  and  the  ani- 
mal is  said  to  have  lost  its  cud.  Here  again  we  have  a  symptom  mis- 
taken for  a  disease,  if  digestion  is  going  on  properly  the  cud  (so- 
called)  will  be  present,  so  that  the  loss  of  the  cud  as  termed  by 
many  people,  is  a  symptom  of  digestive  trouble  and  needs  investiga- 
tion as  to  the  cause,  not  the  giving  of  a  so-called  cud,  of  pork, 
greased  rags  or  unwholesome  materials;  if  this  condition  has 
existed  for  a  day  or  so,  no  feces  (dung)  will  be  seen  to  pass. 


TREATMENT 

Dissolve  one  ])ound  of  Bovolax  in  a  gallon  of  warm  water. 
When  cooled  down  to  about  70  degrees  F.  give  a  quart  to  a 
full  grown  cow  or  ox  every  six  hours  until  the  entire  gallon 
(4  quarts)  has  been  given.  If  the  patient  is  not  relieved,  a  quart 
of  raw  linseed  oil  may  be  given  at  the  next  six  hour  period.  Gentle 
pressure  and  hand  rubbing  over  the  region  of  the  paunch  may  be 
applied  twice  or  three  times  daily  for  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  at  a 
time.  In  very  stubborn  cases  the  above  may  be  repeated,  but  it  is 
rarely  necessary.  These  doses  are  for  adult  cows  or  oxen.  Smaller 
animals  should  have  doses  reduced  according  to  size  and  age. 

FOUNDER  (laminitis)  is  included  under  diseases  due  to  errors 
in  feeding,  although  it  frequently  occurs  from  driving  on  hard,  dry 
roads,  excessive  purging,  sudden  checking  of  sweating  by  giving 
very  cold  water  when  heated;  hard  work  when  not  in  condition, 
(jr  it  may  follow  foaling  or  lung  troubles,  and  occasionally  from 
standing  too  much  on  a  limb  in  order  to  save  another  which  may 
be  injured.  Excessive  feeding  for  the  showring  or  block,  etc.,  tvitli 
lack  of  exercise;  wheat,  especially  when  green,  or  breaking  loose 
and  getting  at  grain  in  the  bin  are  other  common  causes.  This 
disease  meiy  appear  in  cattle  and  sheep,  although  the  pain  shown 
.will  not  be  as  acute  as  in  horses.  The  symptoms  of  laminitis  are 
so  well  marked  that  once  seen  they  arc  never  forgotten.     A  horse 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  41 


affected  will  stand  immovable  in  a  stall  with  his  forefeet  away 
in  front  of  him,  his  weight  being  thrown  on  the  heels.  If  the  hind- 
feet  are  affected,  they  and  the  forefeet  are  placed  well  under  the 
body;  the  animal  if  made  to  move  rocks  on  its  limbs  and  will 
jump  with  both  forefeet  together.  The  pulse  is  hurried;  the  throbbing 
of  the  arteries  below  the  fetlocks  can  be  felt.  If  an  attempt  to  lift 
the  foot  is  made,  the  animal  resists ;  the  feet  arc  hot  and  tender, 
especially  if  tapped  with  a  hammer;  the  breathing  is  hurried,  giving 
rise  to  the  suspicion  that  the  lungs  are  affected;  the  pulse  is  full 
and  hard,  and  the  membrane  of  the  eye  reddened  (congested). 
Sweating  will  be  seen  as  a  result  of  the  extreme  pain  and  thirst 
will  be  great ;  the  thermometer  will  show  an  increased  body 
temperature. 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  needs  to  be  energetic,  for  unless  it  is  so,  de- 
structive changes  will  take  place,  resulting  in  dropping  of  the  sole, 
due  to  the  pedal  bone  turning  point  downwards,  (pumic  foot)  and 
possibly  shedding  of  the  entire  hoof.  Irregular  rings  around  the 
foot,  close  together,  are  evidences  of  an  attack  at  some  time,  as  is 
also  the  tendency  of  a  horse  to  travel  on  its  heels  when  trotted.  Tub 
the  feet  in  warm  water  or  apply  hot  poultices  for  a  few  times.  Then 
apply  Elk's  Dessicant  over  the  coronet  just  above  the  hoof,  once  a 
day  for  three  days.  Purgatives  such  as  aloes  should  not  be  given; 
;i  quart  of  linseed  oil  will  be  useful  and  safe  to  use.  In  these  cases, 
give  a  tablespoonful  of  saltpetre  (nitrate  of  potash)  twice  daily  in 
the  drinking  water  until  the  fever  subsides.  Bran  mashes  or  other 
light  food  are  to  be  preferred.  Some  veterinarians  remove  the  shoes, 
which  is  not  always  easy  unless  the  animal  is  made  to  lie  down 
(this  should  be  done  if  it  persists  in  standing).  Do  not  pare  through 
the  sole,  but  as  soon  as  the  worst  symptoms  are  over  (in  three  or 
four  days),  give  moderate  exercise,  a  run  at  pasture,  a  moist  one 
preferable.  After  this,  blistering  the  coronets  is  a  great  help  to 
restore  the  foundered  animal  to  usefulness.  This  disease  in  sheep  or 
cattle  will  be  more  common  during  the  summer,  if  high  feeding, 
without  taking  into  consideration  the  temperature,  or  putting  on 
full  feed  too  suddenly  is  persisted  in.  More  is  to  be  gained  by  pre- 
vention than  by  cure.  If  such  animals  are  affected,  doses  of  glauber 
salts  are  to  be  given  occasionally,  the  doses  being  the  same  as  of 
epsom  salts. 

LYMPHANGITIS,  big  leg,  weed,  or  water-farcy  (not  a  good 
term,  apt  to  be  mistaken  for  farcy),  is  another  serious  trouble  due 


42  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


to  errors  in  feeding.  The  lymph  channels  and  nodes  are  inflariimcd, 
consequently  their  working-  is  more  or  less  hindered.  Causes  arc 
over-feeding,  lack  of  exercise,  or  sudden  change  to  large  quaiititiov 
oi  new  food,  etc.  It  might  be  considered  a  disease  in  which  the 
lymph  has  stagnated  (stopped  moving)  in  the  lymph  vessels.  1'hcsc 
vessels,  it  will  be  remembered,  act  especially  as  carriers  of  waste 
material  from  various  parts,  hence  this  stagnated  material  acts  as  a 
foreign  object  with  the  result— inflammation  of  the  organs  affected. 
There  is  excessive  swelling  of  one  or  more  limbs,  usually  a  hind  one, 
the  swelling  extending  from  top  to  bottom  of  the  limb,  which  is  hot 
and  painful  to  the  touch;  the  swelling  will  pith  on  pressure;  run- 
ning the  hand  down  the  inside  of  the  limb  the  lymph  nodes  are  felt : 
the  temperature  is  above  normal;  there  is  great  lameness,  rapid 
breathing,  hard  full  pulse  and  the  lymphatics  are  seen  to  be  en- 
larged ;  owing  to  the  cause,  lack  of  exercise,  it  is  oftenest  seen  on 
Monday  morning,  hence  it  has  been  termed  Monday  morning  fever. 
Attention  to  the  diet — bran  mashes  every  Saturday  night  contain- 
ing a  tablespoonful  of  salt  petre — will  almost  certainly  prevent  the 
disease.  A  horse  once  attacked  is  liable  to  have  the  trouble  recur 
and  as  a  consequence,  there  will  be  a  chronic  enlargement  and  thick 
ening  of  the  limb  (elephantiasis).  This  disease  must  not  be  con- 
founded with  ordinary  stocking  up  of  the  limbs,  which  is  painless,  nr 
with  the  local  form  of  glanders,  termed  farcy,  a  very  dangerous  dis 
case,  both  to  man  and  animal. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  should  be  directed  towards  the  cause  and  its 
effect ;  therefore,  limit  the  feed,  give  a  purgative  (Bovolax,  prefer- 
ably") to  remove  the  acciunulated  waste  products,  which  have,  in  the 
form  of  lymph,  escaped  more  or  less  into  the  tissues,  and,  if  left 
there,  may  coagulate  and  thus  give  the  chronic  thickening  so  often 
a  result  of  this  disease.  Bathe  the  limb  with  warm  water,  thus  re 
lieving  the  tension  and  pain  ;  hand  rub  and  bandage  the  limb  when 
the  inflammation  is  subsiding,  and  if  the  swelling  is  slow  to  depart, 
you  may  apply  Elk's  Absorbing  Ointment  to  the  swollen  parts  once 
or  twice  a  week. 

HEAVES,  nr  BROKEN  WIND,  is  a  chronic  condition  in 
which  there  is  difficulty  of  breathing  (the  act  of  expelling  air  from 
the  lungs  taking  longer  than  the  act  of  breathing  in  air).  It  is  due 
originally  to  mistakes  in  feeding,  and  an  animal  badly  affected  is 
rendered  almost  incapable  of  work. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  43 


The  difficulty  of  breathing  in  this  disease  is  due  to  a  dilated 
condition  of  the  lungs,  the  result  of  an  excess  of  air  in  the  air  sacs 
or  in  the  tissue  that  surrounds  the  lobules.  As  a  result,  the  lungs 
are  prevented  from  expelling  all  the  air  they  should,  hence  less  is 
taken  in  than  would  be  if  they  were  in  a  natural  condition.  The  air 
cells  may  be  broken  into  one  another  as  a  result  of  the  violent 
coughing,  whereas  in  the  other  form  the  air  seems  to  enter  the  tis- 
sues during  the  intake  of  air  into  the  lungs,  in  which  case  some 
degeneration  has  in  all  probabiHty  taken  place  in  the  lung  tissue. 
A  full  stomach  and  bozvels  interfere  greatly  with  the  action  of  the 
lungs,  and  when  filled  out  with  food  it  is  not  surprising  that  this 
trouble  occurs.  At  the  commencement  of  the  disease  there  is  a 
spasmodic  cough,  later  a  suppressed  short  weak  cough,  with  a 
double  expiration,  and  the  passage  of  wind  by  the  anus.  In  ordi- 
nary breathing  no  aid  is  needed  to  expel  the  air;  the  natural  elas- 
ticity of  the  lungs  performs  the  work.  In  this  disease  the  muscles 
of  the  abdomen  are  used,  as  is  noticed  by  the  heaving  of  the  flanks. 

While  the  causes  of  the  previous  troubles  have  been  overload- 
ing the  system,  the  cause  of  this  trouble  is  more  mechanical  in  its 
nature  and  may,  owning  to  the  feed  that  causes  it,  be  a  disease  of 
the  poor  feeder's  horse,  FOUNDER  (BIG  LEG),  etc.,  being  dis- 
eases of  the  horses  belonging  to  the  heavy  feeder.  The  custom, 
existing  among  so  many  farmers,  of  continually  filling  a  horse's 
manger  with  hay,  even  having  them  littered  with  it,  is  one  of  ilic 
great  causes  of  this  disease,  especially  is  this  so  when  the  hay  is 
of  poor  quality,  hard  and  innutritions,  the  horse  being  given  an 
extra  quantity  to  make  up  for  the  deficient  quality.  Hard  chopped 
straw,  overripe  rye  grass,  are  all  liable  to  cause  this  incurable  dis- 
ease, being  irritating  in  their  efifect  on  the  stomach  wall  and  delicate 
filaments  of  the  tenth  nerve,  the  nerve  which  controls  the  lung 
movement — thus  the  relation  of  feeding  to  this  disease  is  at  once 
more  readily  seen  and  understood. 

Heredity  may  also  be  said  to  have  an  influence  on  the  frequency 
with  which  this  trouble  shows  in  a  breeding  stud.  Although  treat- 
ment is  only  palliative,  it  should  none  the  less  be  adopted,  such  as 
feeding  roots  and  grass,  or  some  soiling  crop  in  place  of  dry  hay. 
Limit  the  feed  and  water,  and  let  what  is  given  be  of  the  best  qual- 
ity, clean  oats  and  hay  free  from  dust;  sprinkle  the  hay  with  water 
before  feeding.  In  France  the  hay  is  dampened  with  molasses  and 
water  with  good  results.  The  feeding  of  boiled  flax-seed  or  four  to 
six  ounces  of  linseed  oil  daily  are  very  useful  and  serve  to  keep  the 
bowels  and  skin  in  good  order.  Clover  hay  is  very  unsuitable ; 
clean,  bright  timothy  is  preferable.     In  mild  cases  improvement  is 


44  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


frequently   noticed   when   horses   arc   taken   from    the    East    to   thr 
Western  prairies. 

Horses  afifected  with  heaves  must  be  fed  hay  and  bulky  fodder 
\  ery  sparingly,  say  about  two  or  three  pounds  a  day.  Rather  in- 
crease the  grain  ration  in  order  to  decrease  the  distension  of  the 
abdomen.  By  so  doing  you  will  give  the  lungs  more  breathing 
space  and  their  functional  activity  can  more  easily  be  increased. 
Then  give  a  teaspoonful  of  National  Emphysema  Powders  on  food 
three  times  daily  for  at  least  ten  days.  Rest  for  a  week  and  repeat 
until  the  animal  shows  no  more  signs  of  heaves.  By  no  means  al- 
low the  animal  to  fill  up  to  its  utmost  capacity  on  hay,  fodder,  straw 
or  grass  while  attempting  to  relieve  or  cure  heaves.  National 
Emphysema  Powders  is  a  new,  but  the  most  reliable,  remedy  for 
this  ailment. 

CHOKING  in  cattle  is  usually  due  to  the  attempt  to  swallow 
whole  potatoes,  pieces  of  turnip,  old  shoes,  etc. ;  in  horses  from  bolt- 
ing the  feed,  such  as  whole  oats,  or  from  hard  physic  balls,  pieces  of 
roots,  pressure  by  the  collar,  or  the  formation  of  abscesses  in  colt 
distemper  (Strangles).  In  cattle,  there  is  a  flow  of  saliva  from  the 
mouth,  attempts  to  cough,  bloating,  and  the  presence  of  the  obstruc- 
tion somewhere  along  the  course  of  the  gullet  indicate  the  trouble  ; 
in  horses  the  nose  is  poked  out.  the  neck  is  stiff,  if  attempts  to  drink 
are  made  the  fluid  is  discharged  through  the  nostrils,  there  is  slaver 
ing,  an  anxious  expression,  difficult  breathing;  the  horse  may  droj) 
to  the  ground. 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  in  cattle  is  comparatively  simple  and  successful ; 
the  bloating  is  first  relieved  by  tapping,  an  oiled  probang  or  whip 
stock  is  passed  down  the  gullet  and  endeavor  made  to  push  the  ob- 
stacle on  down.  A  little  oil  poured  down  occasionally,  or  before 
the  use  of  the  probang.  is  also  useful.  An  assistant  may  also  gently 
try  to  work  the  obstruction  downward  if  seen ;  do  not  use  a  Avhip- 
stock  unless  very  flexible  or  a  torn  gullet  and  death  may  result.  A 
rubber  garden  hose  attached  to  a  force  pump  and  forcing  a  little 
water  gently  will  dilate  the  oesophagus  and  tend  to  remove  the  ob- 
struction. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


DROPPING  WADS  OF  HAY 

When  a  horse  drops  wads  of  hay  while  eating  it  is  a  sure  sig-n 
of  broken  or  defective  teeth.  Usually  he  will  salivate  considerably 
while  eating,  besides  dropping  the  food.  These  conditions  are  most 
common  the  season  of  the  year  when  farm  horses  have  a  good  ap- 
petite and  are  eager  to  eat  and  unfortunately  bite  on  a  piece  of  metal 
or  stone  in  the  oats  or  other  grain,  thereby  splitting  or  breaking  one 
or  more  of  the  teeth.  In  most  cases  the  broken  piece  does  not  come 
off  immediately,  but  remains  on  either  side  of  the  process,  only  to 
cut  the  tongue  or  delicate  membranes  of  the  mouth ;  or,  if  the  tooth 
is  split  in  two,  the  food  is  pressed  between  the  split  surfaces,  which 
spreads  the  two  pieces  apart,  thus  causing  the  food  to  become  lodged 
there  permanently  and  decompose.  This  causes  an  offensive  smell 
and  is  very  painful  to  the  animal,  thus  interfering  with  mastication 
and  bringing  about  the  above  mentioned  conditions. 

TREATMENT 

Have  the  fractured  particles  of  teeth  removed  and  the  teeth 
floated.  This  usually  affords  immediate  relief.  It  is  good  practice 
to  have  a  horse's  mouth  looked  over  once  a  year.  They  feel  a  tooth- 
ache as  keenly  as  you  do,  but  cannot  make  their  troubles  known,  nor 
are  they  able  to  help  themselves.  Acute  indigestion,  colics,  and  gen- 
eral unthriftiness  are  often  the  result  of  faulty  teeth. 


DISEASES  OF  THE  TEETH 

The  stockman  is  seldom  worried  with  TOOTH  TROUBLES 
in  sheep,  cattle,  and  pigs,  and,  unless  well  informed,  is  apt  to  think 
horses  are  just  as  free.  Such,  however,  is  not  the  case.  The  slight- 
est irregularity  of  the  teeth  will  interfere  more  or  less  with  chew- 
ing and  masticating  the  food,  quite  readily  understood  if  a  person  is 
famiHar  with  the  arrangement  of  the  teeth.  NO  HORSE  IS  EX- 
EMPT. From  colthood  to  old  age  the  teeth  are  liable  to  need  at- 
tention. There  are  general  symptoms,  such  as  unthriftiness,  (often 
in  spite  of  good  and  liberal  feeding  and  little  work)  there  is  drib- 
bling of  saliva  from  the  mouth,  (ends  of  hay  may  be  dropped  from 
the  mouth,  water  is  let  fall  out  when  drinking,  the  horse  may  crib 
or  windsuck,  the  feces  may  contain  undigested  feed)  there  may  be 
swelling  of  the  jaw,  a  partial  refusal  of  food,  loss  of  flesh;  the  ani- 
mal may  pull  on  the  bit  or  refuse  to  take  hold  at  all,  and  there  may 
be  swelling  of  the  gums  just  behind  the  upper  front  teeth.     If  this 


46  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


symptom — not  a  disease,  remember — is  seen,  the  word  "Lampas"  is 
uttered  and  the  cause  of  the  trouble  thought  to  be  located ;  the 
swollen  gums  are  perhaps  torn  with  nails  or  burned  with  hot  irons, 
but  there  is  no  improvement.  To  the  well  informed  the  cause  is 
soon  known — it  is  the  teeth.  Here  the  veterinarian  with  the 
proper  instruments  is  indispensable.  The  employment  of  a  quack,  a 
traveling  (so-called)  horse  dentist,  or  the  attempt  to  treat  the  condition 
by  the  owner  or  groom  will  be  unsatisfactory,  being  cruel  and  worrying 
to  the  horse,  even  to  the  extent  of  spoiling  his  mouth  for  life.  Ever}^- 
(jiie  knows  that  the  efforts  of  the  expert  human  dentist  are  directed 
to  preserve  the  teeth,  not  to  insert  false  ones,  even  more  important  is 
this  effort  in  the  horse,  false  teeth  in  him  not  being  practicable ;  a 
horse's  usefulness,  and  therefore  his  life,  depends  as  much  on  his  teeth, 
or  more  so,  than  on  any  organ  of  the  body,  and  while  horse  buyers  only 
examine  the  front  teeth  to  determine  the  age,  the  well-posted  person 
will  want  to  know  the  condition  of  the  grinders,  and  whether  any  are 
absent  or  diseased.  The  yearly  examination  of  the  horse's  mouth  by 
the  veterinarian  is  one  of  the  most  profitable  investments  that  can  be 
made  by  an  owner,  as  feed,  fiesh  and  the  required  power  to  do  the  work 
will  be  saved.  The  period  of  teething,  it  will  be  remembered,  extends 
almost  from  birth  until  the  horse  is  five  years  old,  consequently,  the 
colt  is  just  as  liable  to  have  tooth  troubles  as  is  an  old  horse.  The  milk 
(Temporary)  molars  or  crowns,  as  they  are  termed,  are  often  retained 
instead  of  being  shed  at  the  proper  time,  especially  during  the  age  of 
two  to  four  years.  The  symptoms  already  mentioned  are  present  and 
the  lining  of  the  mouth  may  show  a  sore  surface,  the  gums  even 
bleeding,  as  oftentimes  a  crown  becomes  partially   loose,  and  its 

sharp  and  jagged  edge  will  be  pressed  upon  the  gums  during  at- 
tempts to  feed ;  the  treatment  is  removal  of  those  crowns,  the 
smoothing  of  any  sharp  edges,  soft  feed,  and  in  a  few  weeks  the 
improvement  is  almost  beyond  belief. 

WOLF  TEETH  arc  evidences  of  evolution  in  the  horse.  Show- 
ing his  relation  to  the  tapir  and  other  animals,  the  reasons  advanced 
for  their  removal,  namely,  danger  to  the  eyes,  is  not  tenable,  as  the 
eyes  are  never  directly  affected  by  them.  They  are  usually  re- 
moved as  a  matter  of  policy,  by  the  veterinarian;  they  might,  if 
very  large,  interfere  with  the  bit;  as  the  wolf  tooth  has  a  fang;  it 
should  be  pulled,  not  knocked  out,  if  its  removal  is  decided  upon. 
The  commonest  .trouble  that  the  veterinarian  is  called  upon  to  treat 
in  horse  dentistry  is  the  presence  of  projections  of  the  grinders,  and 
such  projections  causing  sore  mouths,  slavering,  the  passage  of  mi- 
digested  food  in  the  feces,  unthriftiness,  (sometimes  very  marked) 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


47 


indigestion,  wounds  of  the  tongue  and  lining  of  the  mouth,  side 
pulling  on  the  bit,  the  manger  often  being  covered  with  saliva. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  is  simple,  calling  as  it  does  for  the  use  of  the 
float  (dental  file)  and  yet  is  not  simple  enough  to  warrant  the  trust- 
ing of  this  work  to  the  traveling  quack  or  the  majority  of  owners. 
The  veterinarian  should  be  employed  and  after  the  removal  of  the 
projections  soft  feed  should  be  given  for  a  few  davs.  The  average 
Work  Iiorse  Mill  need  this  attention  once  a  vear. 


Excessive  salivation   (Due  to  faulty  or  irregular  teeth). 


DECAYED  TEETH  often  cause  symptoms  in  horses  which 
have  in  the  past  been  mistaken  for  Glanders,  Nasal  Gleet.  Such 
symptoms  as  a  stinking  breath,  together  with  a  stinking  discharge 
from  one  nostril,  quidding  of  the  food,  pain  during  chewing,  (shown 
by  the  animal  suddenly  stopping  that  act  often  to  let  some  of  the 
food  fall  from  the  mouth)  holding  the  head  to  one  side  when  drink- 
ing, loss  of  condition  and  perhaps  a  swelling  of  the  jaw,  or  fistula  of 
that  bone.    The  only  successful  treatment  is  removal. 


48  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CRIBBING  AND  WINDSUCKING  are  two  diseases  due  to 
idleness,  or  the  habit  may  have  started  in  the  colt  during  teething. 
It  is  a  very  unpleasant  vice  and  affects  the  condition  of  a  horse  more 
or  less  due  to  its  detriment.  The  application  of  a  neck-strap  when 
in  the  stable  and  plenty  of  work  are  so  far  the  most  satisfactory 
measures  to  adopt.  These  vices  are  considered  as  UNSOUND- 
NESSES in  horses,  therefore,  in  the  examination  of  a  horse  the 
edges  of  the  front  teeth  should  be  looked  at  to  see  if  those  edges  are 
worn  or  chipped,  the  impress  of  the  neck-strap  upon  the  hair  may 
sometimes  be  detected,  and  the  prospective  buyer  will  draw  conclu- 
sions accordingly. 

DISCHARGES  FROM  THE  NOSTRILS  are  of  common  oc- 
currence, some  are  quite  serious  in  their  import,  others  not  so  much 
so;  briefly  we  may  class  them  as  follows : 

1.  If  chronic  and  no  smell,  yellowish  or  greenish  in  color, 
sticky  and  from  one  nostril,  often  the  left,  suspect  glanders. 

2.  If  chronic  and  from  one  nostril,  the  discharge  being  of 
a  stinking  nature,  suspect  a  decayed  tooth. 

3.  If  chronic  from  both  nostrils,  white,  glossy,  flaky,  not 
sticky,  more  abundant  during  mastication,  the  discharge  is  like- 
ly from  the  guttural  pouches. 

4.  If  chronic,  becoming  of  the  nature  of  pus,  and  stinking, 
catarrh,  the  bones  of  the  head  being  affected. 

ACUTE  DISCHARGES  are  seen  in  common  colds,  inflamma- 
tion of  the  larynx,  bronchitis,  pneumonia  and  lung  gangrene  (rot- 
ting). 


RURAL  VETERINARY  ^ECRET^ 


49 


FAULTY  AND  IRREGULAR  TEETH 

Animals,  like  man,  are  subject  to  irregular,  decayed  or  broken 
teeth.  Of  all  the  lower  animals,  the  horse  appears  to  have  the  most 
trouble  in  this  connection,  due  probably  to  the  fact  that  it  feeds 
more  on  whole  grain,  especially  oats.  Oats  is  liable  to  contain  small 
stones  and  pieces  of  nails  and  bolts,  such  as  often  get  into  the  oats 
while  threshing  or  cleaning.  When  the  animal,  in  its  eagerness 
while  hungry  bites  into  these  hard  objects,  it  is  liable  to  break  or 
split  one  or  more  teeth,  thus  causing  acute  sensitiveness,  excessive 
salivation,  and  inability  to  properly  masticate  the  food  thereafter, 
besides  starting  favorable  openings  for  decomposition  of  the  teeth, 
in  which  particles  of  food  substances  may  lodge  and  decompose. 


PLATE  3 

Lower   third   molar   growing   into   cavity   where   upper 

corresponding  molar  is  missing. 


If  decay  works  deeply  into  a  split  tooth,  it  is  liable  to  cause 
stubborn  fistulas  of  the  jaw,  attended  with  a  discharge  of  an  of- 
fensive odor  from  the  nostrils,  which  invariably  indicates  decay  of 
bone.  When  a  tooth  is  broken  off,  the  corresponding  tooth  in  the 
opposite  jaw  upon  which  it  is  supposed  to  grind,  wull  begin  to  grow 
into  the  cavity.  (See  Plate  3.)  In  these  cases  there  may  be  a  sharp 
projection  an  inch  or  more  in  length.  If  this  is  the  case  the  animal 
will  cud  its  hay  and  spit  it  out. 


50  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


SYMPTOMS 

When  an  iiniinal  shows  an  excessive  flow  of  saHvu  from  the 
mouth,  and,  showing  a  wiUingness  to  eat,  grabs  the  food  eagerly  and 
suddenly  drops  it  or  holds  its  head  to  one  side  as  if  in  pain  after 
drinking  cold  water,  you  may  be  assured  that  there  is  something 
wrong  with  the  teeth  which  might  have  caused  wounds  in  the 
mouth. 

All  irregularities  and  decomposition  of  teeth  interfere  with  the 
proper  mastication  of  food  and  lead  to  indigestion.  This  very  often 
terminates  in  colic,  bloating,  inflammation  of  the  bowels,  worms, 
unthriftiness,  and  various  organic  troubles.  Besides,  it  causes  an 
enormous  waste  of  food.  Under  these  conditions  a  horse  may 
easily  waste  from  10c  to  25c  worth  of  digestible  food  per  day.  Let 
us  take  15c  per  day  for  example :  In  365  days  you  would  lose  $54.75 
in  food  alone,  to  say  nothing  about  the  amount  of  service  you  lose 
during  this  time  on  account  of  ill-health  and  lack  of  spirit  and 
energy,  which  naturally  follow  these  conditions. 


TREATMENT 

To  avoid  all  this,  the  owner  should  ha\  r  his  horse's  teeth  ex- 
amined at  least  once  a  year  or  oftener.  The  horse  cannot  tell  you 
\vhen  it  has  a  toothache,  but  you  may  feel  assured  that  the  faithful 
animal  feels  it  just  as  keenly  as  you  do. 


RESTRAINT 

Floating,  Hling,  and  trimming  the  teeth  of  horses  can  be  ac- 
complished without  provoking  resistance  enough  to  demand  any 
forcible  means  of  restraint.  The  minor  dental  operations  are  ac- 
cepted with  remarkable  complacency  by  the  great  majority  of 
horses.  The  only  necessary  restraint  is  to  prevent  the  horse  from 
backing  away  from  the  operator  and  from  elevating  the  muzzle  out 
of  reach  of  the  hands  and  instruments.  This  is  done  by  backing  the 
horse  into  a  single  stall  and  securing  the  head  at  a  comfof-table 
height  on  the  pillar  reins  with  the  DENTAL  HALTER.  The  ordi- 
nary leather  halter  is  not  satisfactory  for  this  purpose  because  one 
side  or  the  other  will  i)ress  against  the  cheek  an<l  prc\ent  the  free 
passage  of  instruments  along  the  teeth. 

The  dental  halter  consists  of  a  leather-covered  iron  loop  hfteen 
inches  long  and  nine  inches  wide  with  a  single  poll  strop  and  a  ring 
on  each  side  for  the  tie  ropes.    The  poll  strap  is  of  tw^o-inch  heavy 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


51 


leather  with  numerous  buckle-holes  to  make  it  adjustable  to  any 
sized  head.  The  tie  ropes  are  ordinary  half  inch  hemp,  long  enougli 
to  encircle  the  pillar  or  to  reach  the  pillars  of  a  stall  of  any  ordi- 
nary width.  Whenever  the  tie  ropes,  owing  to  the  construction  of 
the  stall,  cannot  be  tied  low  enough  on  the  pillars  to  hold  the  head 
down  to  the  proper  height,  a  third  rope  or  strap  is  tied  to  the  lower 
end  of  the  halter,  passing  between  the  fore  legs  around  the  withers 
and  back  again  between  the  fore  legs  to  the  halter.  By  this  addi- 
tion a  horse  can  be  secured  in  an  open  room,  field,  or  box  stall  with 
only  the  assistance  of  one  person  to  steady  the  head. 

In  the  absence  of  the  dental  halter,  dental  operations  should 
be  performed  with  the  aid  of  an  assistant,  holding  the  head  with 
one  hand  on  the  poll  and  the  other  over  the  nasal  bridge. 

The  operator  takes   his   place  directly   in   front   of   the   horse, 


Floating  the  nioU 


placing  his  left  hand  over  the  bridge  of  the  horse's  nose  to  help 
steady  the  head  and  draw  the  patient's  attention.  The  right  hand 
is  then  passed  into  the  mouth  through  the  dental  space  of  the  left 
side  of  the  patient's  mouth,  pressing  its  tongue  from  the  right  to 


52  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


and  between  the  left  molars,  whereby  he  can  easily  explore  every 
molar  on  the  right  side  of  the  mouth  with  his  middle  finger.  To 
explore  the  left  molars  use  the  left  hand  in  the  same  manner  from 
the  opposite  side. 

If  any  broken  or  decayed  teeth  are  found,  they  should  be  re- 
moved at  once.  If  the  teeth  are  irregular  they  should  be  trimmed 
down  and  properly  floated.  After  this  the  condition  of  the  animal 
can  be  quickly  built  up  by  feeding  a  tablespoonful  of  National  Al- 
terative Powders.  This  corrects  all  disorders  of  the  digestive  organs 
thus  brought  about,  kills  the  worms,  and  builds  up  the  rundown 
system. 


CALF  SCOURS 

Scours  in  calves  is  the  cause  of  loss  of  a  large  percent  of  our 
best  bred,  new-born  members  of  the  herd.  It  is  due  to  either  one  of 
two  causes. 

First,  the  mother's  milk  may  be  too  rich  for  the  delicate  stom- 
ach of  the  little  calf,  or  possibly  she  has  been  milked  several  days 
or  a  week  before  calving,  thus  depriving  the  calf  of  the  colostrum, 
or  first  milk,  which  belongs  to  the  calf.  If  this  is  the  case,  the  calf 
should  be  given  a  tablespoonful  of  castor  oil  as  soon  as  the  trouble 
is  noticed.  Then  follow  Avith  a  teaspoonful  of  Elk's  Anti-Scour 
Powders  in  the  mother's  milk,  diluted  one-half  with  warm  water 
three  times  daily. 

Second,  the  calf  may  have  contagious  or  infectious  scours, 
which  affects  every  newly-born  calf  in  the  l)arn.  This  can  be  pre- 
vented by  giving  a  hypodermic  injcclion  of  bactrins  just  as  soon 
after  birth  as  possible. 


LOSS  OF  APPETITE 

Loss  of  appetite  usually  indicates  a  derangement  of  the  di 
gestive  organs.  It  accompanies  almost  all  organic  aihnenls.  In 
(jrdcr  to  prescribe  an  effective  remedy  for  the  same,  we  must  first 
of  all  ascertain  the  cause  and  remove  it.  When  the  cause  has  been 
removed,  we  must  assist  nature  to  repair  the  unnatural  condition 
thus  brought  about.  To  do  this  an  efifective  alterative  is  indicated. 
There  is  nothing  better  than  a  teaspoonful  of  National  Alterative 
Powders  in  moist  food  three  times  daily. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  53 


COLIC  IN  HORSES 

The  term  colic  pertains  to  disorders  of  the  colon  (or  large 
bowel)  of  the  horse,  to  any  disorders  of  the  stomach  or  digestive 
organs.  The  most  frequent  causes  of  colic  are  acute  indigestion, 
change  of  food,  hay  partly  cured,  new  thrashed  oats  eaten  while 
in  a  sweat,  wilted  corn  fodder,  musty  grain  or  silages,  frozen  grass 
or  roots,  and  watering  after  a  heavy  meal,  especially  when  the  horse 
has  been  deprived  of  the  same  for  some  time. 


TREATMENT 

Give  one  or  two  tablespoonfuls  of  National  Specific  for  Colic 
and  Urinary  Troubles  in  twice  as  much  water.  If  the  case  is  very 
severe,  you  may  repeat  in  one  hour.  One  dose  almost  invariably 
suffices  and  gives  prompt  relief.  This  specific  contains  appropriate 
anodynes  to  relieve  the  pain,  carminatives  to  limit  the  gases,  and 
anti-ferments  to  prevent  them  from  re-occuring,  besides  having  suf- 
ficient laxative  and  stimulating  qualities  not  to  interfere  with  the 
action  of  the  bowels.  It  relaxes  the  muscles  of  the  bladder  and  al- 
lows the  urine  to  flow  freely.  It  is  not  expensive,  is  very  efifective, 
and  is  especially  valuable  in  case  of  emergency. 


ACUTE  INDIGESTION  (Often  termed  Colic) 

A  common  disorder  of  the  digestive  organs  due  to  averloading 
the  stomach  or  stomachs,  the  taking  of  mouldy,  frozen,  or  un- 
wholesome food,  eating  hastily,  without  properly  chewing  the  food, 
faulty  and  irregular  teeth,  or  feeding  while  warm  and  fatigued  from 
exhaustive  work,  or  watering  while  warm. 


TREATMENT 

Dissolve  one  ounce  of  National  Specific  for  Colic  and  Urinary 
Troubles  in  three  ounces  of  water  and  give  as  a  drench  or  with  a 
syringe.  Within  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  you  will  usually  notice  the 
passing  of  natural  gases  from  the  rectum,  which  is  almost  invariably 
followed  by  natural  urination.  These  are  sure  signs  of  an  early  re- 
covery. If  not  relieved  in  one-half  hour  repeat  this  dose.  It  is 
rarely  necessary  to  give  more  than  one  dose  unless  you  have  com- 
plications with  other  diseases. 


54 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


INTESTINAL   CALCULI 


Each  Calculi 


contains  a  thrcc-cornercd  glazing  ti 
nucleus. 


for  its 


Intestinal  Calculi  are  lime  stones  in  bowels  formed  by  the  ani- 
mal swallowing  foreign  substances,  such  as  nails,  tacks,  or  pieces  of 
metal.  While  in  the  alimentary  tract  the  lime  contained  in  the  food 
and  water  adhere  to  the  foreign  bodies  and  form  these  lime  stones, 
as  lime  has  a  special  affinity  for  metal,  the  metal  nucleus  is  the 
most  common,  although  other  substances  may  be  found  in  a  cal- 
culus, such  as  balls  of  hair  swallowed  when  animals  lick  each  other. 

I'hc  above  cut  shows  a  number  of  calculi  weighing  3  pounds 
and  8  ounces  found  in  the  large  bowels  of  a  horse  eighteen  months 
after  the  horse  had  swallowed  a  package  of  window  glazing  tacks. 
Each  one  of  these  stones  contains  for  its  nucleus  one  of  these  tacks. 
The  animal  died  of  a  sunstroke  and  on  post  mortem  examination  the 
bunch  of  calculi  was  discovered. 

When  an  animal  craves  for  such  foreign  substances,  it  is  an 
indication  of  indigestion.  The  stomach  usually  is  sour  and  the 
patient  craves  for  alkalis.  In  such  cases  give  a  full  dose  of  Bovolax, 
one  pound  for  a  horse  or  cow,  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water. 
This  will  tend  to  remove  the  cause.     Then  follow  with  charcoal  or 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  55 


Neutrogen  in  tablespoonful  doses  twice  daily  in  moist  food  to  neu- 
tralize the  secretions  of  the  stomach. 

It  is  difficult  to  determine  whether  or  not  an  animal  carries  a 
calculus  unless  it  becomes  large  enough  to  be  felt  in  the  abdomen. 
A  calculus  might  grow  to  the  size  of  a  man's  head.  Then  they  be- 
come dangerous,  as  when  they  become  dislodged  they  might  cause 
a  complete  obstruction  of  the  bowel  which  might  result  in  death, 
'f'he  smaller  calculi  are  often  dislodged  and  passed  out  without  be- 
ing noticed  and  usually  are  harmless.  A  large  dose  of  physic,  such 
as  aloes  or  Bovolax,  Avill  often  cause  their  expulsion. 


PREVENT  DISEASE  BY  FEEDING  FOR  HEALTH 
AND  PROFIT 

It  is  not  a  question  of  how  much  of  a  well  balanced  ration  an 
animal  can  eat,  but  how  much  of  it  is  properly  digested. 

The  importance  of  assisting  the  digestive  organs  to  perform 
their  natural  functions  and  thereby  to  increase  the  nutritive  value 
of  animal  food  intelligently,  while  the  animal  is  in  the  state  of 
domestication,  has  been  sadly  neglected  in  the  past,  but  is  now 
deemed  an  absolute  necessity.  The  successful  feeder  watches  every 
meal  the  animal  eats  and  also  watches  the  effect  it  has  on  the  animal. 
It  is  only  human  for  an  owner  to  be  selfish,  or  greedy,  for  the  sake 
of  making  an  animal  produce  as  much  milk,  beef,  pork,  veal,  mutton, 
etc.,  as  possible  in  as  short  a  time  as  possible,  to  go  just  a  little  too 
far  and  overcrowd  the  digestive  organs.  In  this  attempt  the  animal 
gets  a  set-back  for  three  or  four  days  and  possibly  so  many  weeks, 
or  is  liable  to  be  out  of  sorts  for  some  time  thereafter,  simply  be- 
cause the  digestive  organs  have  been  overtaxed  and  weakened  and 
you  did  not  make  good  what  you  had  wronged  in  your  selfish  at- 
tempt for  gain.  This  means  a  loss  of  time  and  money  as  well  as 
discomfort  to  the  animal. 

For  instance,  you  have  a  cow  which  you  wish  to  push  to  the 
front  to  make  a  high  milk  record  while  she  is  being  stable  feed ;  you 
think  you  are  doing  your  duty  when  you  water  and  feed  her  at 
proper  hours  and  gradually  increase  her  grain  ration  as  long  as  she 
will  eat  it  up  clean.  But  all  at  once  she  will  refuse  her  feed,  will 
rapidly  let  up  on  her  flow  of  milk,  show  a  swollen  quarter  or  two, 
give  curded  milk,  or  at  times  only  a  small  amount  of  amber  colored 
fluid  from  one  or  more  teats,  and  the  feces  will  have  an  otTensive 


56  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


sour  odor.  All  of  these  are  signs  of  faulty  digestion  due  to  over- 
taxing the  digestive  organs  and  lack  of  proper  assistance  to  these 
organs  while  put  to  this  severe  test. 

You  will  notice  that  such  conditions  are  rarely  found  when  the 
cow  is  at  liberty  in  the  pasture  where  she  has  access  to  the  ad- 
vantages of  nature.  Many  of  us  have  seen  a  cow  or  horse  paw  a  hole 
into  the  ground  and  eat  clay,  chew  old  bones,  pieces  of  rusty  iron  or 
even  eat  dry  wood,  etc.  When  they  do  this  they  are  doing  it  for 
a  purpose  and  usually  the  purpose  is  to  neutralize  the  secretions  of 
the  digestive  organs,  which  have  been  deranged  for  some  reason  or 
other.  But  while  confined  to  the  stable,  she  is  deprived  of  all  these 
advantages  and  is  dependent  entirely  upon  you.  Naturally  you  give 
her  liay,  grain,  water,  and  possibly  some  ensilage,  you  prepare  your 
ration  to  suit  your  own  convenience,  but  pay  too  little  attention  to 
the  natural  wants  of  the  cow,  and  the  same  plan  is  carried  out  dur- 
ing the  entire  season.  You  deprived  her  of  the  advantages  of  nature 
and  it  now  becomes  your  duty  to  study  out  a  plan  by  which  you 
can  substitute  something  artificially  in  place  of  those  things  which 
you  are  not  furnishing  her,  but  is  demanded  by  nature.  If  you  will 
take  the  trouble  to  do  this,  your  cow,  horse,  sheep,  or  hog,  what- 
ever it  may  be,  will  surely  thrive  better  and  yield  more  profit  for 
the  amount  of  food  consumed. 

If  a  man  were  confined  like  animals  are,  he  would  not  thrive 
so  well  either.  We  may  feel  like  eating  beefsteak  with  onions  for 
a  while,  but  if  we  were  to  get  it  three  times  a  day  with  the  same 
side  dish  and  dessert,  we  would  soon  call  for  a  change,  no  matter 
how  near  a  proper  ration  this  would  figure  out  to  be.  When  eating 
our  meats,  which  correspond  to  the  grain  in  an  herbivorous  animal's 
ration,  we  spice  it  to  aid  its  digestibility,  and  we  add  such  spices 
as  are  best  adapted  for  the  kind  of  food  we  take.  We  take  care  that 
all  our  vital  organs  are  properly  toned  so  that  they  may  perform 
their  natural  functions,  by  taking  such  food  as  we  desire  and  which 
answers  nature's  demand  for  the  system,  but  we  forget  that  an 
animal  under  domestication  should  have  like  privileges,  in  order  to 
thrive  best. 

The  writer  hereof  was  born  and  raised  on  a  farm,  has  practiced 
veterinary  medicine  for  twenty-seven  years  in  a  dairy  and  stock 
raising  community  where  one  cannot  help  but  observe  a  necessity 
which  must  in  the  future  find  more  sympathy  for  the  dumb  animal 
in  the  hearts  and  minds  of  mankind  for  the  mutual  benefit  of  both. 
It  appears  that  we  can  supply  this  call  of  nature  with  a  little 
careful  observation  and  study  of  the  actual  needs  of  the  animal's 


BUBAL  VETEBINABY  SEGBETS  57 


body,  as  well  as  we  can  figure  out  a  proper  food  ration.  If  we  feed 
for  profit,  we  must  also  feed  for  health,  and  as  an  animal  cannot 
very  well  be  profitable  unless  it  is  healthy,  the  two  must  go  together. 

If  an  animal  refuses  its  usual  food  ration,  we  at  once  conclude 
there  is  something  wrong  with  the  digestive  organs.  This  is  not  all, 
for  if  one  of  the  vital  organs  of  the  body  is  out  of  order  the  rest  must 
sufTer  in  sympathy,  as  in  a  state  of  perfect  health  all  the  vital  organs 
must  work  in  harmony  with  each  other.  In  looking  for  the  cause 
of  the  trouble  you  must  conclude  that  it  is  due  to  an  error  in  feed- 
ing and  hasten  to  remove  the  cause  before  it  becomes  chronic  and 
causes  a  lot  of  unnecessary  waste  of  time,  food  and  energy.  We 
then  must  hasten  to  repair  the  damage  which  has  been  done  by  this 
little  error,  by  administering  stimulating  agents  to  the  organs  af- 
fected to  bring  them  back  to  their  natural  condition  and  enable  them 
to  perform  their  natural  functions. 

One  of  the  first  symptoms  of  a  deranged  condition  of  the  or- 
gans of  digestion  is  a  sour  smell  from  the  mouth  and  also  from  the 
feces.  This  is  an  indication  of  an  excessive  acidity.  This  acidity 
can  easily  be  eliminated  and  avoided  by  adding  to  the  food  ration 
enough  of  a  simple  alkali  which  favors  digestion  and  avoids  the 
trouble  in  the  first  place.  We  next  notice  that  the  liver,  lymphatics, 
kidneys  and  other  organs  become  inactive  and  lack  tone;  this  we 
eliminate  by  adding  simple,  natural  alteratives  and  dieretics,  such 
as  really  belong  in  the  food  ration  and  are  demanded  by  nature.  We 
also  can  tone  the  nervous  system  and  the  process  of  digestion  by 
adding  natural  stomachics  and  tonics  in  the  same  proportions  as  the 
animal  gets  under  natural  conditions.  By  carefully  studying  the 
natural  conditions  required  to  make  an  animal  healthy  and  profitable 
and  comparing  them  with  the  conditions  existing  when  the  animal 
is  under  domestication,  one  must  conclude  that  the  deficiency  which 
we  all  admit  can  easily  be  figured  out  if  you  are  familiar  with  the 
requirements  of  the  animal  body. 

The  writer  believes  he  has  figured  out  the  proper  formula  to 
meet  all  the  demands  of  nature  in  such  a  form  that  every  farmer  can 
prepare  his  own  stock  food  or  stock  tonic,  so  that  he  will  receive 
more  benefit  out  of  a  given  amount  of  food  the  year  round  and  keep 
the  animal  in  its  proper  health  than  can  be  obtained  under  the  ordi- 
nary practice  of  feeding.  By  adding  this  formula  to  the  daily  food 
ration  in  proper  proportions,  you  place  the  animal  under  domestica- 
tion on  a  level  with  the  one  that  is  allowed  its  natural  freedom  in 
the  rich  meadow  or  pasture.  Its  blood  is  kept  in  exactly  the  same 
condition  and  is  supplied  with  all  the  demands  of  nature. 


58  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


FORMULA 

Old  Process  Oil  Meal 85  lbs. 

Common  Salt 10  lbs. 

National  Sanguitone  Compound 5  lbs. 

100  lbs. 


DIRECTIONS: 

Mix  well  and  give  one  tablespoonful  in  food  twice  daily  to  adult 
horses  or  cattle,  smaller  animals  take  less  according  to  size  and  age. 

This  compound  is  the  natural  substitute  for  fresh  grass. 
Sanguitone  can  now  be  obtained  in  any  up-to-date  drug  store.  If 
your  local  dealer  does  not  keep  it,  write  to  the  Author  and  you 
will  be  supplied  without  delay. 

This  formula  is  not  a  secret.  There  is  no  patent  on  it,  you  can 
save  from  a  hundred  to  two  hundred  per  cent  by  making  your  own 
stock  food  or  tonic  and  get  far  better  results  from  your  stock.  Thou- 
sands of  farmers  have  taken  advantage  of  this  opportunity  and  have 
reported  flattering  results. 


CHAPTER  IV. 


Diseases  Common  to  the  Reproductive 
Organs 


Diagram  of  teat  and  one  quarter  of  udder. 
s,  sphincter  muscle;  t,  teat;  r,  milk  resei-voir;  d,  the  duct;  o,  opening  of 
a  duct;  1,  lobe;  1',  a  lobule  lined  by  c,  epithelium;  f,  folds  of  mucous  mem- 
brane. 


60  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


THE  MILK  GLANDS  AND  THEIR  FUNCTIONS 

The  milk  glands  are  essential  to  the  proper  performance  of  the 
reproductive  function.  Man  has,  however,  made  use  of  the  milk  func- 
tions and  developed  it  to  such  an  extent  that  some  cows  are  now 
specialists  in  milk  production;  the  result  of  such  specialization  is 
that  the  milk  glands  have  become  larger,  the  milking  habit  more 
persistent,  the  quantity  given  greater  and  the  liability  to  disease 
increased. 


THE  UDDER 

The  arrangement  and  construction  of  these  milk  glands  varies 
in  the  different  animals.  The  mare's  udder  consists  of  two  halves 
each  presenting  a  nipple  or  teat  pierced  by  openings  for  the  passage 
of  milk;  in  mares  that  have  never  borne  young  the  teats  and  udder 
are  small,  in  old  brood  mares  the  udder  and  teats  are  large  and 
flabby. 

The  udder  of  the  cow  is  composed  of  two  halves,  each  again  di- 
vided so  that  we  speak  of  the  quarters  of  an  udder;  while  in  the  ewe 
two  glands  only  are  present,  each  with  a  teat;  in  the  sow  the  udder 
extends  along  the  belly  and  has  from  eight  to  ten  teats  belonging  to 
as  many  glands,  arranged  in  two  rows  lengthwise.  The  interior 
of  the  gland  is  made  up  of  gland  tissue  formed  into  lobes,  each  lobe 
being  made  up  of  smaller  lobules_,  each  of  these  in  turn  being  made 
up  of  cells  and  small  ducts.  These  ducts  unite  to  form  large  ducts, 
all  of  which  gradually  converge  to  the  center  of  the  gland  where 
they  form  cavities  known  as  milk  sinuses,  (they  used  to  be  termed 
lactiferous  (milk-making)  sinuses. 

The  milk  sinuses  empty  the  lacteal  secretion  into  the  teats, 
each  of  which  is  guarded  by  a  sphincter  muscle  at  its  lower  end. 
It  is  this  sphincter  muscle  which  is  so  hard  to  relax  in  some  cows 
that  causes  them  to  be  termed  hard  milkers.  The  udder  is  lined 
with  a  delicate  cell  structure  known  as  epithelium,  this  cell  structure 
extends  to  the  alveoli  (lobules). 


SHAPE  OF  MILK  GLAND 

It  has  been  stated  that  the  internal  parts  of  the  udder  consist 
of  cells  and  other  structures;  and  as  such,  require  the  use  of  the 
microscope  more  or  less  in  their  examination.  Besides  the  cells, 
consideral)le  connective  tissue  enters  into  the  udder  formation  and 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


61 


the  amount  of  such  tissue  materially  affects  the  elasticity  of  the 
udder,  as  it  docs  in  muscle.  The  so-called  meatiness  depends  on  the 
presence  of  a  large  quantity  of  connective  tissue,  the  presence  of 
which  cannot  help  but  supplant  gland  tissue  (secreting  tissue)  ; 
therefore  we  can  understand  why  expert  udder-judges  want  elastic 
udders  on  their  cows.  Professor  Plumb  has  made  a  series  of  studies 
of  the  external  form  of  the  udder  and  the  relation  of  that  form  to 
usefulness.  We  cannot  do  better  than  note  what  he  says  regarding 
the  matter:  "A  good  type  of  udder  will  have  its  side-line,  that  of 
the  curve  of  a  circle,  if  a  fine  udder,  it  will  be  carried  along  beyond 
the  lines  of  the  circle,  by  an  extension  along  the  belly  and  up  be- 
tween the  hind  legs.  Such  an  udder  with  teats  about  three  and  one- 
half  inches  long,  makes  a  good  type  as  viewed  from  the  side.  Ex- 
amined from  the  rear,  there  should  be  considerable  thickness,  the 


MAMMARY  VEINS  AND  UDDER. 

I.  I.  I.  I.  I. — Udder  Veins.     F.  F. — Forks  of  the  right  inaniinary  vein. 

Or.  Or.  Or. — Orifices  in  which  the  mammary  veins  enter  tlie  abdomen 
on  the  way  to  the  heart.  B. — Branch  vein.  A.  E. — Abdominal  extension. 
C.  E. — Chest  extension.  U.  D. — Umbilical  development  of  the  mammary 
veins.     C. — Connection  between  the  main  two  veins. 

dividing  furrow  shallow  and  no  meatiness,  the  good  udder  when 
milked  out  being  fairly  well  shrunken."  While  the  ultimate  test  of 
the  milking  ability  will  be  the  scales  and  the  Babcock  test,  there  can 
be  no  doubt  whatever  after  a  close  study  of  the  experiments  of  Prof. 
Plub  that  the  shape  and  construction  of  the  udder  are  valuable  in- 
dications towards  getting  a  correct  idea  of  the  milking  abilities  of  a 
cow.  The  above  authority  calls  attention  to  the  lack  of  fore  udder 
in  many  cows  and  gives  figures  to  back  up  his  contention — that  the 


62  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


best  udder  is  squarely-balanced,  elastic-feeling  udder,  with  a  large 
blood  supply.  Certain  breeds  are  deficient  in  this  respect,  the 
y\yrshire,  however,  being  strong  in  fore  udder  development.  There 
is  much  in  heredity;  many  stock  breeders  examine  the  bull  intended 
to  head  their  herds,  for  the  placing  of  the  rudimcntarics  (small 
teats  just  in  front  of  bag  or  scrotum),  as  they  believe  that  such  plac- 
ing is  an  indication  of  the  probable  placing  of  the  teats  in  his 
progeny,  consequently  they  want  the  rudimentaries  squarely  placed. 
Prof.  Plumb  puts  the  question  "May  not  a  material  gain  in  milk- 
flow  be  secured  by  developing  the  fore  udder?"  The  figures  sub- 
mitted by  him  in  Bulletin  62,  of  Purdue  University,  certainly  hold 
out  testimony  that  such  improvement  may  result. 

In  heavy  milkers  the  udder  is  often  perpendicular.  What  is 
termed  the  funnel-shaped  udder  is  not  a  desirable  type,  neither  are 
udders  with  very  large  teats.  It  is  interesting  to  note  that  no  such 
irregularities  of  form  is  presented  by  any  part  of  the  anatomy  of 
the  horse,  ox,  sheep  or  pig,  as  shown  in  the  milk  glands  of  the  cow. 
If  one-quarter  of  an  udder  is  diseased,  the  other  quarters  do  not 
seem  to  take  on  the  work  of  the  resting  quarters. 


FUNCTION  OF  THE  UDDER 

The  function  of  the  udder  is  to  secrete  milk,  the  stimulus  to  do 
so  being  the  maternal  function,  thus  the  work  of  this  organ  differs 
from  that  of  others  in  the  body,  since  its  secretion  serves  no  useful 
purpose  to  the  animal  secreting,  but  is  intended  to  serve  as  a  food 
on  which  to  raise  the  offspring. 


SECRETION  OF  MILK 

The  secretion  of  milk  is  held  to  depend  on  a  throwing  off  of 
the  epithelial  cells  of  the  alveoli,  combined  with  a  filtering  out  of 
water,  salts  and  other  materials  from  the  blood  ;  when  that  secretion 
takes  place  is  yet  a  moot  point,  but  the  opinion  held  by  the  best 
authorities  is  that  the  secretion  of  the  greater  part  of  the  milk  goes 
on  during  the  act  of  milking.  It  is  now  held  that  the  nervous  sys- 
tem has  a  great  deal  to  do  with  the  production  of  milk,  a  reasonable 
conclusion  when  we  remember  that  the  activity  of  a  gland  dejiends 
largely  on  its  blood  supply,  that  supply  being  controlled  by  the 
nerves,  whose  action  Is  to  contract  or  widen  the  blood  vessels. 

Roehrig  describes  a  nerve  which  leaves  the  spinal  cord  and  goes 
to  the  udder ;    filaments  from  its  branches  go  to  the  teats,  the  cis- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  63 


terns  and  the  alveoli.  When  the  teats  are  worked  with  the  hands 
or  milking  cups,  the  nerves  surrounding  them  are  irritated,  and 
through  them  the  secreting  glands  are  stimulated,  causing  their  con- 
traction and  the  discharge  of  their  contents. 

The  veins  along  the  belly  leave  the  front  of  the  udder  and  go 
forward  in  a  more  or  less  winding  manner,  branch  more  or  less  often, 
and  eventually  disappear  through  holes  on  the  abdominal  floor, 
termed  milk-wells,  then  pass  along  on  the  inside  of  the  upper  side 
of  the  breast  bone,  to  be  eventually  united  to  the  internal  thoracic 
vein  (the  mammary  vein  of  the  human). 


MAMMARY  VEIN 

Ihc  mammary  vein  then  will  be  accepted  as  affording  some  in- 
dication at  least  of  the  milking  capabilities  of  a  cow.  Some  breed- 
ers' associations  call  for  certain  arrangements  of  those  veins,  as  fol- 
lows :  Single  and  double  extension,  single  and  double  branches, 
single  and  double  chest  extension,  or  umbilical  (navel)  veins).  The 
wells  vary  in  number  from  one  to  three  on  each  side  of  the  animal, 
licncc  tlicy  should  be  of  good  size. 

Tlic  greater  the  capacity  of  the  arteries  and  veins  connected 
with  the  udder,  the  larger  the  milk  secretion  zvill  usually  he.  Theory 
and  practice  then  seem  to  unite  and  back  up  the  ideals  of  the  dairy- 
man, one  of  which  is  a  great  development  of  the  mammary  veins. 
The  arterial  supply  cannot  be  seen,  and  only  parts  of  the  venous 
system  of  the  udder  are  visible,  viz.,  the  abdominal  veins  and  those 
underlying  the  skin  of  the  udder,  yet  reasonable  conclusions  can  be 
drawn  from  the  development  of  the  milk  veins. 


HOLDING  UP  THE  MILK 

Various  theories  have  been  advanced  to  account  for  this  illus- 
tration of  animal  perversity  and  human  peculiarity;  the  latter  prob- 
abl}^  had  been  shown  in  the  form  of  abuse,  and  of  course,  stamps 
the  exhibitor  as  one  not  fit  to  own  or  milk  cows.  Wing,  in  "Milk 
and  Its  Products,"  states  that  the  holding  of  the  milk  is  due  to  the 
l^resence  of  sphincter  muscles  at  the  branching  of  the  ducts,  and 
that  this  muscular  tissue  is  connected  with  the  abdominal  muscles, 
which  is  contracted  as  a  result  of  fright,  dislikes,  etc.,  will  cause 
the  milk  to  be  retained  in  the  udder,  or,  as  it  is  termed,  the  cow 
holds  up  her  milk.  So  far  we  have  been  unable,  either  by  dissection 
of  udders  or  consultation  of  authorities  on  the  anatomy  and  histo- 


64  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


logy  of  the  udder,  to  verify  his  statement.  Furstenberg  states  that 
holding  up  of  the  milk  is  due  to  a  congestion  of  the  blood  vessels 
of  the  teat  and  gland,  which  is  more  tenable  than  the  preceding 
theory,  as  it  is  well  known  that  congestion  interferes  with  the  work- 
ing of  any  gland. 


SUPPRESSION  OF  MILK 

The  absence  of  milk  in  the  udder  may  result  from  ill-health,  de- 
bility, emaciation,  chronic  diseases  of  the  bag,  wasting  of  the  gland 
from  previous  disease,  or  insufficient  food,  but  sometimes  it  will 
occur  suddenly  without  any  appreciable  cause. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  will  consist  of  removing  the  cause  of  the  disease, 
feeding  well  on  rich  albuminoid  food  made  into  warm  mashes,  and 
giving  teaspoonful  doses  of  National  Sanguitone.  Rubbing  and 
stripping  the  udder  are  useful ;  also  the  application  of  Electric  Cream 
after  each  rubbing  twice  or  three  times  daily. 


BLOODY  MILK 

Blood  may  escape  with  the  milk  when  the  udder  has  been  in- 
jured by  blows,  also  when  it  is  congested  or  inflamed,  when  the 
circulation  through  it  has  been  suddenly  increased  by  richer  and 
more  abundant  food,  or  when  the  cow  is  under  the  excitement  of 
heat.  The  milk  frothing  up  and  assuming  a  pink  tinge  is  often  the 
first  sign  of  red  water  and  it  may  result  from  eating  acrid  or  irritant 
plants  like  the  Ranunculacac,  resinous  plants,  etc.  Deposits  of 
tu])ercular  tumors  in  the  udder,  or  induration  of  the  gland  may  be 
efficient  causes,  the  irritation  caused  by  milking  contril)uting  to 
draw  the  blood.  Finally,  there  may  be  a  reddish  tinge  or  sediment 
when  madder  or  logwood  has  been  eaten. 

When  milk  becomes  red  after  it  is  drawn  it  may  be  due  to  the 
presence  of  Micrococcus  i)rodigiosus.  This  also  grows  on  bread  and 
is  the  explanation  of  the  supposed  miracle  of  the  "bleeding  host." 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  will  vary  with  the  cause.     In  case  of  congested 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  65 


glands  take  one  pound  package  of  Bovolax.  Dissolve  in  a  gallon 
of  warm  water,  and  give  a  quart  as  a  drench  every  three  hours  until 
four  consecutive  doses  are  given.  Thereafter  give  one-half  ounce 
of  saltpeter  in  drinking  water  twice  daily.  Bathe  the  udder  with 
warm  water  one-half  hour  at  a  time  twice  daily  and  rub  with  NA- 
TIONAL ELECTRIC  CREAM.  If  the  food  is  too  rich  or  abund- 
ant, it  must  be  reduced  ;  if  from  acrid  plants  these  must  be  removed 
from  pasture  or  fodder.     Careful  milking  is  imperative. 

BLUE  MILK 

Watery  milk  is  blue,  but  the  presence  of  a  germ  causes  a  dis- 
tinct blue  shade,  even  in  rich  milk  and  cream.  It  may  reach  the 
milk  after  it  has  been  drawn,  or  it  may  find  its  way  into  the  opening 
of  the  milk  ducts  and  enter  the  milk  as  it  is  drawn. 

TREATMENT 

In  the  latter  case  frequent  milking  and  a  full  dose  of  Bovolax 
followed  with  an  injection  into  the  teats  of  a  solution  of  two  drams 
of  hyposulphite  of  soda  in  a  pint  of  water  will  serve  to  destroy  them. 


STRINGY  MILK 

This  may  be  caused  by  germs  developing  in  the  liquid.  The 
presence  of  the  spores  of  these  germs  in  the  system  of  the  cow  may 
be  safely  inferred  from  the  fact  that  in  a  large  herd  two  or  three 
cows  only  will  yield  such  milk  at  a  time,  and  that  after  a  run  of  ten 
days  or  a  fortnight  they  will  recover  and  others  will  be  attacked.  I 
have  found  that  such  affected  cows  had  the  temperature  raised  one 
or  two  degrees  above  the  others.  Like  most  other  fungi  this  does 
not  grow  out  into  filaments  within  the  body  of  the  cow,  but  in  five 
or  six  hours  after  milking  the  surface  layers  are  found  to  be  one 
dense  network  of  filaments.  If  a  needle  is  dipped  into  this  and  lifted, 
the  liquid  is  drawn  out  into  a  long  thread.  In  several  cases  which 
have  been  investigated,  the  contamination  was  manifestly  due  to  a 
spring  which  oozed  out  of  a  bank  of  black  muck  soil  and  stood  in 
pools  mixed  with  the  ejections  of  the  animals.  Inoculation  of  pure 
milk  with  the  water  as  it  flowed  out  of  these  banks  developed  in  it 
the  fungus  and  the  stringy  characters.  By  fencing  in  these  springs 
and  giving  the  affected  cows  each  a  full  dose  of  Bovolax  followed 
with  two  drams  of  bicarbonate  of  soda  daily,  the  trouble  was  arrested 
promptly  and  permanently. 


66 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CONGESTION  OF  THE  UDDER   (Garget) 


Swollen  and  caked  udders. 


In  heavy  milkers  before  and  just  after  calving  it  is  a  rule  that 
the  mammary  gland  is  enlarged,  hot,  tense  and  tender.  There  is 
also  a  slight  congestion  or  swelling  extending  forward  from  the 
gland  on  the  lower  surface  of  the  abdomen.  This  physiological  con- 
gestion is  looked  upon  as  a  matter  of  course  and  disappears  in  two 
or  three  days  when  the  secretion  of  milk  has  been  fully  established. 
This  breaking  up  of  the  sAvollen  bag  may  be  greatly  hastened  by 
the  sucking  of  a  hungry  calf  and  the  kneading  it  gives  the  udder 
with  its  nose,  by  stripping  the  glands,  clean  thrice  daily,  and  by 
active  rubbing  at  each  milking  with  the  palm  of  the  hand,  with  or 
without  lard. 

The  congestion  may  be  at  times  aggravated  by  standing  in  a 
draft  of  cold  air  or  by  neglect  to  milk  for  an  entire  day  or  more 
(overstocking)  with  the  view  of  making  a  great  show  of  udder  for 
the  purpose  of  sale.  In  such  cases  the  surface  of  the  bag  pits  on 
pressure  and  the  milk  has  a  reddish  tinge  or  even  streaks  of  blood, 
or  it  is  partially  or  fully  clotted,  is  drawn  with  difficulty  and  may 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  67 


be  mixed  with  a  yellowish  serum  (whey)  which  has  separated  from 
the  casein,  commonly  called  Garget.  This  should  be  treated  like  the 
above,  though  it  may  sometimes  demand  fomentations  with  warm 
water  succeeded  by  a  liberal  rubbing  with  Electric  Cream  (Na- 
tional) three  times  daily  and  giving  a  large  teaspoonful  of  saltpeter 
in  drinking  wate^  three  times  daily  to  ward  off  inflammation.  It 
may  be  a  week  before  the  natural  condition  of  the  gland  is  restored. 


CAKED  UDDERS 

Caked  udders  in  cows  and  other  farm  animals  are  due  to  over- 
distension of  the  udder,  excessive  exercise  with  a  full  udder,  lying 
on  and  squeezing  the  udder  in  a  small,  uncomfortable  stall,  or  any 
kind  of  external  violence  to  the  udder. 

TREATMENT 

Remove  the  cause  if  you  can  find  it.  Then  bathe  the  udder  with 
warm  water  (as  warm  as  you  can  stand  to  your  hands)  for  one-half 
hour,  after  which  rub  well  with  National  Electric  Cream.  Repeat 
this  twice  daily.  Dissolve  a  pound  package  of  Bovolax  in  a  gallon 
of  warm  water.  Give  a  quart  every  morning  and  night  until  the 
entire  gallon  has  been  given.  Then  you  may  give  a  teaspoonful  of 
saltpeter  in  food  once  or  twice  daily  and  keep  on  applying  the  Elec- 
tric Cream  and  warm  water  until  the  udder  is  normal.  This  will  re- 
lieve a  swollen  udder  and  bring  it  to  its  natural  condition  more 
quickly  than  any  remedy  known. 


FAILURE  TO  COME  IN  HEAT 

This  complaint  is  more  common  among  cattle  than  other  farm 
animals,  possibly  because  of  the  presence  of  the  germ  which  causes 
abortion  in  a  herd,  (Bacillus  Abortus.)  When  abortion  exists  in 
a  herd,  even  though  it  is  only  to  a  slight  extent,  the  organs  of  gen- 
eration are  more  or  less  depoverished.  This  accounts  for  the  lack 
of  oestrum  or  failure  to  come  in  heat.  There  are  other  causes,  such 
as  debilitating  diseases  and  a  rundown  condition. 

TREATMENT 

In  these  cases  the  patient  must  be  fed  grain  more  liberally,  care 
being  taken  not  to  overfeed,  but  to  keep  the  digestive  organs  in 


68  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


good,  active  condition.  The  very  best  way  to  build  up  the  gen- 
erative organs  is  to  tone  them  with  a  teaspoonful  of  Genitone  on 
food  twice  daily.  This  remedy  is  claimed  by  good  authorities  to  be 
a  specific  for  building  up  the  genitals  and  is  very  successful  in  pre- 
venting abortion  and  barrenness  as  it  acts  directly  on  the  nerve 
centers  which  govern  these  organs,  giving  them  tone  as  well  as  re- 
sisting power. 


LEUCORRHEA 

This  is  a  catarrhal  condition  of  the  genital  organs,  which  dis- 
charge a  whitish,  sticky  substance  usually  following  abortion  or 
difficult  parturition.  Wounds  inflicted  during  the  act  of  parturi- 
tion upon  any  part  of  these  organs  bring  about  infection  and  an 
abnormal  discharge  from  the  genitals,  which  becomes  chronic  and 
invariably  prevents  conception. 


TREATMENT 

Irrigate  the  uterus  and  vagina  with  a  solution  of  two  teaspoon- 
fuls  of  Neutrogen  Powders  in  a  quart  of  luke-warm  water  once 
daily  until  the  discharge  has  entirely  disappeared.  To  adult  mares 
and  cows  give  a  teaspoonful  of  Genitone  in  food  twice  daily  to 
strengthen  the  genitals  and  restore  them  to  their  natural  health  and 
vigor.  For  smaller  animals  reduce  the  dose  according  to  the  size 
and  age  of  the  animal. 


ABORTION 

Abortion  is  of  two  forms,  accidental  and  contagious.  The 
former  is  caused  by  accidents  such  as  slipping,  crowding  into  a  nar- 
row stall  or  door,  or  riding  other  cattle,  etc.  The  latter  (contagious 
abortion)  is  due  to  a  specific  germ  known  as  the  Baccilus  Abortus, 
gaining  access  to  the  organs  of  reproduction,  which  cause  an  irrita- 
tion and  shut  off  the  nutrition  to  such  an  extent  as  to  bring  about 
an  involuntary  expulsion  of  the  foetus.  This  results  in  a  depov- 
erished  condition  of  the  genital  organs  which  weakens  them  to  such 
an  extent  that  they  will  lack  resistance  to  subsequent  attacks  of  the 
germs,  thus  bringing  about  subsequent  abortions. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  69 


The  losses  from  abortions  are  not  confined  to  the  death  of  the 
immature  foetus.  The  attendant  conditions  of  retained  afterbirth, 
sterihty  and  weakling  calves,  the  loss  of  milk,  the  cost  of  combat- 
ing the  disease,  and  not  least  the  loss  in  breeding  efficiency  in 
valuable  animals  combine  to  make  an  enormous  total.  In  some  in- 
stances, the  loss  reaches  fifty  per  cent  and  even  seventy-five  per  cent 
of  the  calf  crop.  It  is  the  man  who  has  had  to  combat  abortion 
who  can  realize  how  long  and  difficult  a  procedure  it  is.  Th'e  stock 
industry  has  already  suft'ered  a  setback  from  the  discouragement  of 
owners,  some  of  whom,  in  despair,  have  abandoned  the  keeping  of 
cattle,  and  others  again  are  contemplating  the  same  course  unless 
relief  can  be  aft'orded. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  signs  of  approaching  abortion  are :  Two  or  three  days 
before  the  expulsion  of  the  foetus  there  will  be  a  swelling  of  the 
udder,  swelling  of  the  external  genitals,  and  the  appearance  of  a 
slimy,  odorless  discharge  from  the  vagina.  These  symptoms  may 
not,  however,  always  appear  and  abortion  may  occur  without  warn- 
ing. In  young  animals  and  those  aborting  for  the  first  time  abortion 
usually  occurs  at  an  early  period.  This  may  occur  in  the  third  or 
fourth  month  of  pregnancy  and  may  pass  unnoticed  because  of.  the 
smallncss  of  the  foetus  and  the  absence  of  disturbance  in  the  gen- 
eral health  of  the  cow.  It  may  lead  the  owner  to  believe  that  she 
has  failed  to  conceive.  On  the  other  hand,  where  abortion  takes 
place  in  the  seventh  or  eighth  month  of  pregnancy,  retained  after- 
birth is  a  common  occurrence  and  the  act  is  accompanied  by  rest- 
lessness and  pain.  In  some  cases  pregnancy  may  continue  almost 
to  the  full  term  and  the  calf  may  be  born  alive,  but  weak  and  soon 
dies.  In  herds  where  the  disease  is  known  to  be  present,  these  cases 
should  also  be  considered  as  abortions. 


TREATMENT 

In  every  event  the  genital  organs  must  be  strengthened  and 
built  up  to  their  natural  strength  and  resisting  power  in  order  that 
they  may  perform  their  proper  functions.  For  this  purpose  give 
one  teaspoonful  of  Genitone  in  food  once  daily,  per  cow,  for  one 
month  after  abortion  has  taken  place.  Then  rest  until  about  six 
weeks  before  the  usual  period  when  abortion  sets  in,  and  continue 
as  above  until  the  cow  has  delivered  a  healthy  calf.  If  a  cow  in 
your  stable  has  aborted,  destroy  the  calf,  afterbirth,  and  litter  by 


70  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


fire  or  by  burying  them  deeply,  and  thoroughly  disinfect  the  entire 
stable.  Remove  the  member  which  has  aborted  to  a  separate  clean 
stable  and  flush  the  genitals  once  daily  with  a  1  per  cent  solution  of 
lisol  or  a  1  to  2,000  solution  of  bichloride  of  mercury,  using  at  least 
one  gallon  at  each  time.  Use  a  fountain  syringe  or  siphon  for  this 
purpose  and  continue  the  flushing  until  all  abnormal  discharges 
from  the  genitals  have  disappeared.  Do  not  breed  the  animal  for  at 
least  two  or  three  months  in  order  to  give  the  Genitone  a  chance  to 
restore  the  reproductive  system  to  its  natural  condition,  when  it  will 
be  more  able  to  resist  possible  subsequent  attacks  of  the  germs  and 
also  be  able  to  carry  the  foetus  to  its  full  maturity. 

This  is  the  latest  and  has  proven  to  be  the  most  successful 
treatment  for  abortion  at  the  present  writing.  The  secret  of  suc- 
cess in  treating  abortion  is  to  be  thorough  in  executing  the  above 
instructions. 


BARRENNESS 

HOW  TO  MAKE  BARREN  COWS  AND  OTHER  FARM 
ANIMALS  PRODUCTIVE 

There  is  scarcely  a  farmer  or  dairyman  who  has  not  one  or 
more  barren  cows  in  his  herd  that  are  eating  up  the  profits  derived 
from  the  productive  ones.  The  barren  cow  or  heifer  takes  the  place 
of  one  which  might  just  as  well  net  its  owner  from  $100.00  up- 
ward annually  in  production  of  milk  alone.  In  addition  to  this  the 
calf  is  valued  according  to  its  individual  merits  and  breeding.  The 
barren  cow  eats  almost  the  same  amount  of  feed,  occupies  the  same 
amount  of  room  in  the  stall  or  pasture,  and  gives  you  practically 
nothing  in  return.  She  keeps  you  in  constant  hope  of  bringing  re- 
turns, especially  so  if  she  is  well-bred  and  of  good  individual  merits. 
This  will  give  you  special  inducements  to  keep  her  longer  than  you 
otherwise  would  without  sending  her  to  the  butcher's  block. 

THE  CAUSE  OF  BARRENNESS 

There  are  three  principal  causes  for  barrenness.  First,  the  one 
most  commonly  noticed  by  breeders  and  dairymen,  occurs  where 
there  is  an  abnormal  secretion  of  the  mucous  membranes  of  the 
generative  organs,  which  becomes  chronic  in  time  and  of  an  of- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  71 


fensive  odor.  This  is  usually  due  to  difficult  parturition,  injuries 
sustained  during  the  act  of  parturition,  infection  by  unclean  hands 
and  instruments  of  attendants,  and  also  by  retaining  the  placenta, 
where  the  placenta  is  not  removed  and  is  allowed  to  remain  within 
the  uterus  and  can  only  be  carried  out  by  the  process  of  sloughing. 
All  these  causes  render  the  mucous  secretions  more  or  less  acid  in 
reaction,  a  fact  which  prevents  conception  by  antagonizing  the 
spermatozoon  (germ  of  life). 

Second  are  those  causes  by  which  there  exist  specific  germs 
within  the  genitals,  which  causes  an  abnormal  condition  and  alter 
the  secretions  of  the  same,  such  as  the  germs  of  abortion,  which  are 
very  common  and  cause  a  great  deal  of  trouble  at  the  present  time ; 
also  altered  conditions  of  the  os  uterus  (mouth  of  the  womb)  due 
to  the  existence  of  tumors  or  malignant  growths  obstructing  the 
natural  opening  of  the  os,  thus  preventing  conception  by  excluding 
the  spermatozoon  entirely. 

The  third  cause  is  improper  development,  or  a  diseased  condi- 
tion of  the  genitals,  which  renders  them  unable  to  perform  their 
natural  functions. 


TREATMENT 

In  every  case,  no  matter  what  might  be  the  cause  of  the  dis- 
order, you  must  first  of  all  ascertain  the  cause  and  remove  it.  This 
can  be  done  by  making  a  careful  exploration  with  your  hand,  which 
must  first  be  thoroughly  cleansed  and  lubricated  with  sweet  un- 
salted  hog's  lard.  Introduce  it  through  the  vulva  into  the  vagina 
and  carefully  note  any  abnormality  which  you  may  feel ;  or  you 
might  use  a  vaginal  speculum,  which  is  made  to  so  dilate  these 
organs  as  to  give  you  a  clear  view  of  the  parts  within.  If  you  notice 
a  whitish  discharge  from  the  os  uterus  ov  vagina,  it  is  a  sure  sign 
of  an  abnormal  secretion  of  the  mucous  membranes,  this  is  almost 
invariably  of  an  acide  reaction.  In  this  case  you  must  flush  the 
uterus  and  vagina  with  a  tepid  antiseptic  solution  (lysol  2%)  using 
a  fountain  syringe  or  siphon.  After  this  you  may  inject  the  follow- 
ing solution  once  daily  or  until  the  discharge  has  ceased :  Take  1 
teaspoonful  of  Neutrogen,  dissolve  in  a  pint  of  water,  which  has 
been  recently  boiled  and  cooled  down  to  body  temperature  and  in- 
ject as  above  stated. 

This  will  neutralize  the  secretions,  give  nature  a  chance  to  re- 
pair the  defects,  and  render  the  surroundings  more  favorable  to  con- 


72  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


ception.  This  is  also  the  proper  treatment  when  barrenness  is 
caused  by  retention  of  the  placenta,  but  it  is  advisable  to  admin- 
ister tonics  which  are  hereinafter  mentioned.  When  the  placenta  is 
retained  it  should  always  be  removed  by  hand  within  forty-eight 
hours  after  parturition  to  avoid  these  abnormal  conditions,  as  the 
prevention  is  much  easier  than  the  cure. 

When  barrenness  is  due  to  the  existence  of  abortive  germs,  you 
must  use  a  stronger  antiseptic  solution  to  destroy  these  germs.  For 
this  purpose  make  a  1  to  2,000  solution  of  bichloride  of  mercury  and 
flush  the  genitals  as  above  directed,  always  being  careful  to  have 
the  solution  at  body  temperature  and  all  utensils  and  instruments 
thoroughly  clean.  The  bichloride  solution  must  not  be  prepared  in 
a  tin  or  metal  vessel ;  a  wooden  bucket  is  probably  the  most  prac- 
tical and  economical  in  this  case.  A  gallon  of  the  solution  is  the 
average  amount  used  for  each  flushing  in  the  latter  case.  If  tumors 
or  abnormal  growths  exist,  they  must  be  removed  surgically  and 
the  bichloride  solution  will  do  to  use  as  an  antiseptic  to  effect  a 
proper  course  of  healing.     When  you  have  succeeded  in  restoring 

the  genitals  to  their  natural  condition,  by  pursuing  the  above  course, 
you  may  start  to  breed  the  cow  again,  being  careful  that  everything 
is  normal  before  you  start.  When  barrenness  is  due  to  abortion  or 
there  has  been  a  catarrhal  condition  of  the  genitals  for  some  time, 
you  will  find  them  greatly  depoverished  and  in  need  of  stimulants 
and  tonics  to  be  given  within  in  order  to  restore  them  to  their  natu- 
ral vigor  and  functional  activity. 

In  cases  of  the  third  kind,  when  there  is  a  faulty  development 
of  the  genitals,  you  will  frequently  find  it  due  to  high  feeding  and 
inbreeding  for  a  special  purpose,  thus  developing  the  nervous  sys- 
tem for  this  special  purpose  at  the  expense  of  the  organs  of  repro- 
duction. It  is  for  this  reason  that  you  will  find  more  barren  cows 
in  herds  that  are  fancy  bred  than  in  the  more  common  ones.  Of 
course  you  may  answer  to  this  that  the  common  cow  or  animal  is 
not  so  valuable  and  is,  therefore,  sold  for  beef  without  delay.  This 
is  true,  but  if  there  were  some  means  of  keeping  actual  count,  you 
would  surely  see  the  well-bred  female  ranking  much  higher  in  num- 
ber among  the  barren  ones  than  those  of  common  blood. 

After  ascertaining  the  cause  of  barrenness  and  removing  it  as 
previously  described,  you  are  now  ready  to  build  up  the  genital 
organs,  which  are  either  impoverished  from  the  existence  of  ab- 
normal conditions,  or  are  ill-developed  naturally.  Both  of  these 
conditions  must  be  treated  by  administering  such  agents  as  act  di- 
rectly upon  these  organs  and  favor  such  repairs  and  developments 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


73 


Barren  cow  and  her  calf — Cow  made  productive  by  artificial  means. 


74  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


as  may  be  required  to  assist  nature  in  restoring  them  to  their  natural 
condition,  which  then  enables  them  to  perform  their  natural  func- 
tions. 

To  prepare  the  patient  for  this  treatment  we  first  give  a  pound 
of  Bovolax  dissolved  in  a  gallon  of  warm  water,  giving  one  quart 
every  four  hours  until  the  entire  gallon  has  been  given.  After  this, 
we  give  a  teaspoonful  of  Genitone  once  daily  in  food,  which 
acts  directly  upon  the  nerve  centers  of  the  genital  organs.  If  the 
patient  is  excessively  fat,  you  must  reduce  her  condition  so  that  she 
is  comparatively  lean  before  you  begin  the  treatment.  The  Geni- 
tone is  prepared  for  this  special  purpose  only  and  requires  no  special 
skill  to  apply  it.  It  comes  in  powder  form  and  thus  can  be  easily 
given  in  bran,  meal,  silage,  or  other  food.  Begin  to  give  the  powder 
at  least  three  weeks  before  you  breed  the  cow  and  continue  two 
weeks  after.    This  treatment  is  inexpensive  and  thoroughly  reliable. 

If  your  dealer  does  not  keep  any  of  these  new  and  most  ef- 
fective preparations,  notify  the  author  of  "Rural  \''eterinary  Secrets" 
and  he  will  advise  you  where  to  get  them  without  delay. 


BUBAL  VETEBINABY  SECBETS  75 


RETAINING  THE  AFTERBIRTH   (Placenta) 

Animals  that  retain  the  afterbirth  have  an  abnormal  condition 
of  the  genital  organs,  most  generally  following  a  premature  birth, 
or  abortion.  Sometimes  the  foetus  (newly-born)  is  fully  developed 
and  expelled  naturally,  but  the  afterbirth  is  immature  and  conse- 
quently adheres  to  the  cotyledons  within  the  uterus,  where  it  must 
be  disconnected  by  hand  or  remain  to  be  sloughed  off  at  the  expense 
of  the  patient's  health  and  usefulness  to  the  owner.  The  milk  from 
a  cow  which  has  retained  the  placenta  and  has  been  allowed  to 
slough  is  not  fit  for  human  food,  nor  is  it  good  for  her  calf,  as  some 
liquids  from  the  decomposed  tissues  are  absorbed  and  thrown  into 
the  circulation  from  which  the  udder  draws  the  milk.  Such  milk 
usually  has  an  offensive  odor,  smelling  similar  to  the  decomposed 
tissues  which  are  cast  oft*  through  the  vagina  and  contains  particles 
of  this  foul  substance.  It  is  natural  for  an  animal  in  this  condition 
to  become  feverish  and  run-down,  partially  lose  her  appetite,  give 
less  milk  and  of  poor  quality,  and  become  generally  unthrifty  and 
unprofitable  for  at  least  several  months,  which  is  expensive  to  the 


TREATMENT 

This  trouble  can  easily  be  prevented  by  strengthening  the  nerve 
and  blood  supply  to  the  genital  organs,  thus  assisting  nature  to  re- 
pair the  defects  and  restore  the  natural  condition  of  these  organs, 
enabling  them  to  perform  their  natural  functions.  To  prevent  re- 
tention of  the  afterbirth  give  each  cow  or  mare  that  is  incHned  to 
retain,  a  large  teaspoonful  of  Genitone  in  food  night  and  morning 
until  a  healthy  delivery  of  the  young  and  afterbirth  has  been  af- 
fected. Genitone  will  prevent  abortion  or  premature  births  and  will 
assist  to  bring  a  timely  development  of  both  foetus  and  afterbirth. 
Should  the  latter  be  retained  a  short  time  after  delivery,  the  above 
treatment  should  be  continued  until  it  is  expelled,  which  usually 
takes  place  within  twenty-four  hours  after  delivery.  Irrigation  of 
the  uterus  with  five  grains  of  Permanganate  of  Potash  dissolved  in 
two  gallons  of  warm  water  once  daily  until  the  entire  afterbirth  is 
expelled  will  greatly  assist  in  connection  with  the  above  named 
treatment,  especially  in  a  stubborn  case. 


76  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


WARTS  ON  COWS'  TEATS 

These  are  often  very  troublesome,  yet  they  may  be  greatly 
benefitted  or  entirely  removed  by  smearing  them  thickly  after  each 
milking  with  Glycrole.  If  they  persist  they  may  be  cut  off  with  a 
sharp  scissors  and  the  sore  touched  with  a  stick  of  lunar  caustic.  They 
may  then  be  enointed  w^ith  Glycerole  and  the  caustic  repeated  as  de- 
manded in  order  to  prevent  their  renewed  growth. 


SCABBY  TEATS 

Scabby  teats  may  also  be  smeared  with  Glycerole  twice  daily 
after  having  been  washed  clean.  There  is  nothing  that  makes  them 
so  soft  and  pliable  and  heals  as  quickly  as  Glycerole. 


HARD   MILKING   COWS 

Every  farmer  has  had  some  experience  with  hard  milking  cows, 
especially  those  who  do  their  own  milking  or  have  an  independent 
hired  man.  Such  cows  are  aggravating  to  the  owner  as  well  as  to 
the  milker,  because  not  only  does  it  take  twice  as  long  to  milk  them, 
but  also  two  or  three  times  as  much  work  and  patience.  The  cause 
of  hard  milkers  is  to  small  an  opening  in  the  distal  end  of  the  teat, 
through  which  the  milk  must  naturally  be  forced. 


TREATMENT 

You  may  enlarge  the  natural  opening  in  the  teat  with  a  teat 
bistoury,  which  will  permit  a  larger  stream  of  milk.  This  will  come 
much  easier  and  relieve  the  milker  from  extra  labor.  Be  careful  to 
have  the  bistoury  thoroughly  clean  before  using  it,  to  avoid  infec- 
tions. This  can  be  done  by  boiling  in  water  for  twenty  minutes. 
The  teat  must  also  be  cleaned  by  washing  with  soap  and  water  be- 
fore the  bistoury  is  employed.  Never  use  the  bistoury  when  a  cow 
is  dry  as  the  cut  surface  will  easily  heal  up  and  might  tend  to  close 
the  opening  entirely ;  while,  if  a  cow  is  giving  a  fair  amount  of  milk, 
the  milk  flow  will  keep  an  opening  of  proper  size  to  allow  a  free 
flow. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  77 

INVERSION  OF  THE  WOMB  (Uterus),  CASTING  OF 
THE  WITHERS 


Uterine  Prolapse  (Rear  View). 
Inversion  of  the  uterus   (Casting  the  withers). 

This  is  a  serious  condition,  especially  in  sows,  mares  and  ewes, 
and  as  a  rule  necessitates  the  immediate  employment  of  the  stockman 
or  veterinarian.  It  may  be  due  to  a  rough  delivery  or  prolonged 
labor,  too  much  traction  on  the  membrances,  poor  condition  due  to 
lack  of  feed,  or  as  a  result  of  standing  with  the  hind  end  lower  than 
the  front  end.  The  stockman  may  have  to  return  the  organ  and 
should  prepare  himself  as  for  removal  of  the  afterbirth ;  have  the 
animal  kept  on  its  feet,  then  cleanse  the  protruded  womb  with  an 
antiseptic  solution,  containing  Sugar  of  Lead,  2  ounces  to  the  gal- 
lon of  warm  water,  removing  any  part  of  the  afterbirth  that  may  be 
attached ;  then  by  doubling  his  fist  and  applying  it  to  the  center  of 
the  mass,  press  it  steadily  and  gently  forward,  when  the  animal 
strains,  being  content  just  to  hold  his  own.  If  the  straining  is 
severe,  pinch  the  back  or  put  on  a  tight,  strong  girth.  The  organ 
having  been  successfully  reinverted  and  placed  back  in  its  natural 
position,  care  should  be  taken  that  both  of  the  horns  (right  and 
left)  are  also  properly  reinverted  and  placed  in  their  natural  posi- 
tion. Then  place  the  patient  in  a  single  stall  with  the  hind  legs 
elevated  about  twelve  inches  higher  than  the  fore  legs,  so  that  the 
weight  of  the  contents  of  the  abdomen  leans  forward,  thus  drawing 
the  genitals  forward  with  them  and  tending  to  keep  them  in  place. 
The  patient  should  be  kept  in  this  position  for  at  least  a  week.     To 


78  BUBAL  VETEBINABY  SECBET8 


make  sure  that  the  animal  will  not  again  attempt  to  throw  out  the 
womb,  three  or  four  strong  sutures  with  twisted  silk  or  linen  should 
be  made  through  the  lips  of  the  vulva. 

A  tonic  should  be  given  in  food  twice  daily.     For  this  purpose 
Sanguitone    Compound,    in    teaspoonful    doses,    is    highly    recom- 


ni 


ended. 


THE   SECRET   OF   INCREASING   THE   FLOW   OF 
MILK  IN  A  DAIRY  COW 

If  you  wish  to  make  a  milk  record  with  your  dairy  cow,  it  is 
advisable  to  begin  to  train  her  for  this  purpose  when  she  is  a  year 
old.  The  well  groomed  and  well  fed  yearling  heifer  starts  to  de- 
velop her  udder  even  before  this  age.  When  slight  natural  conges- 
tion in  this  organ  is  first  noticed,  it  may  be  wonderfully  developed 
into  a  stronger  and  more  powerful  milk  producer  by  hand  rubbing 
and  manipulation  applied  by  the  owner  or  groom  three  or  four  times 
daily  from  five  to  fifteen  minutes  at  a  time.  The  most  successful 
salesman  will  handle  his  heifers  every  time  he  enters  the  stable.  He 
not  only  develops  these  glands,  he  also  gains  the  heifer's  confidence 
and  makes  her  calm,  docile,  and  strong  of  nerve.  By  the  time  this 
heifer  becomes  fresh  she  has  the  natural  form,  development  and 
disposition  to  make  any  exceptional  milk  producers.  Of  course,  the 
breeding  and  general  conformation  should  cut  a  big  figure  in  pick- 
ing your  subject  for  a  winner. 

After  the  calf  has  been  weaned  and  you  wish  to  put  her  to  the 
test,  you  should  see  that  her  digestive  organs  keep  in  perfect  health 
and  condition  in  order  to  support  the  constitution  and  the  demands 
of  the  udder  upon  the  system  for  a  big  flow  of  milk.  This  having 
been  done,  your  heifer  is  in  good  shape  to  stand  a  liberal  amount  of 
crowding  for  her  milk  record.  Of  course,  to  increase  the  flow  of 
milk  you  must  use  good  judgment  in  increasing  your  food  ration. 
This  should  be  wholesome,  well-balanced  and  not  too  heavy.  Give 
water  more  frequently  during  this  period.  To  make  the  udder  more 
active  and  more  productive,  add  one  tablespoonful  of  Galactagogue 
Powders  to  each  meal.  These  powders,  applied  as  above  directed, 
increase  the  appetite,  aid  digestion,  relieve  the  dangers  of  overfeed- 
ing and  stimulate  the  activity  of  the  udder  to  such  an  extent  as  to 
wonderfully  increase  the  flow  of  milk  of  any  healthy  cow,  no  matter 
what  age  she  may  be. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


79 


If  you  are  competing  with  your  neighbor  or  anyone  else  for  a 
milk  record,  you  had  better  keep  this  secret  to  yourself,  or  he  will 
be  doing  the  same  thing  for  his  heifers  and  cows. 

If  your  druggist  does  not  keep  any  of  the  remedies  prescribed 
in  "Rural  Veterinary  Secrets"  write  to  the  author  at  his  home  office 
and  he  will  advise  you  where  to  get  them. 


PARTURIENT  PARESIS   (Milk  Fever) 

Milk  fever  is  a  non-febrile  disease  of  cattle,  swine  and  goats 
occurring  at  or  following  parturition  and  characterized  by  general 
paralysis  and  usually  unconsciousness. 

The  disorder  is  common  among  cows,  especially  valuable  dairy 
cows,  which  are  heavy  feeders  and  deep  milkers.  It  usually  occurs 
at  the  acme  of  lactation  in  cows  that  are  well  bred  and  in  prime 
condition.  Thin  cows  or  very  fat  cows  do  not  seem  predisposed. 
When  delivery  has  been  difficult,  parturient  paresis  is  less  apt  to 
occur  than  when  the  birth  has  been  easy  and  the  expulsion  of  the 
afterbirth  prompt.  Usually  it  occurs  in  cows  from  the  third  to  the 
fifth  calving.     The  causes  are  unknown  at  the  present  writing. 

SYMPTOMS 

The  symptoms  usually  begin  twelve  to  forty-eight  hours  after 
delivery.  A  few  cases  are  recorded  where  the  attack  came  on  dur- 
ing or  before  birth.    The  principal  symptoms  are  suddenly  develop- 


_^_^^.£*^ 

ffpmm 

^      "■■  '?-»--:^ 

J  jFNI 

"       JiSHKK^^^!^^^' 

m^^^  "^nr^  --^ 

^^% 

r 

K».. 

A  typical  case  of  milk  fever  in  first  stage. 
Photo  by  Author. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


ing  general  motor  and  sensory  paralysis,  with  loss  of  consciousness. 
After  showing  some  symptoms  of  languor,  weakness  and  staggering 
gait,  the  cow  lies  down.  She  may  regain  her  feet,  but  arises  with 
difficulty.  Finally,  she  becomes  completely  paralyzed  and  uncon- 
scious. Often  the  patient  is  found  lying  on  her  sternum  with  her 
head  thrown  around  against  the  flank.  In  other  cases  she  lies  flat 
on  her  side.  The  respirations  are  slow  and  deep,  the  temperature 
normal  to  subnormal.     From  the  nostrils  a  lymph-like  fluid  is  dis- 


After  patient  has  been  placed  in   comfortable  position. 
Photo  by  Author. 

charged.    Besides  these  general  symptoms  those  of  specific  paralysis 
of  the  cranial  nerves  occur. 


TREATMENT 

I'he  most  successful  and  simple,  is  the  air  treatment,  discovered 
by  the  writer  July  21st,  1903.  This  consists  of  inflating  the  udder 
with  air  enough  to  distend  it  to  its  full  capacity  by  the  use  of  a 
milking  tube  attached  to  a  rubber  hose  and  bulb.  The  animal  is 
then  placed  on  her  breast  in  a  natural  position  and  if  necessary, 
should   be  propped   up  with   bags   filled   with   grain   or   feed.     To 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  81 


Milk  fever  patient,  convalescing,  three  hours  after  applying  the  air  treatment. 


Same  cow  two  davs  later. 


82  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETi^ 


keep  a  strong  heart,  a  teaspoonful  of  Aromatic  Spirits  of  Ammonia 
may  be  placed  on  the  tongue  every  two  hours.  Do  not  attempt  to 
g-ive  physics  or  large  doses  of  medicine,  as  the  animal  is  usually 
unable  to  swallow  and  there  is  danger  of  the  medicine  finding  its 
way  down  into  the  lungs  and  bringing  about  suffocation.  This  is 
the  air  treatment,  which  is  almost  a  specific  and  is  now  saving 
thousands  of  the  most  valuable  dairy  cows  annually. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  83 

THE  AIR  TREATMENT— HOW  IT  AVAS 
DISCOVERED 

MILK  FEVER  (Parturient  Paresis) 

Until  1897  over  50  per  cent  of  milk  fever  cases  proved  to  be 
fatal.  In  1897  Dr.  Schmidt  Kolding  of  Denmark  recommended  the 
injection  of  a  solution  of  Potassium  Iodide,  2^2  drams  of  the  drug' 
being  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water  and  injected  equally  into 
the  four  teats.  This  produced  a  wonderful  improvement  in  the 
mortality  of  the  victims,  Schmidt  claiming  to  save  90  per  cent. 

The  writer  followed  the  advise  of  Dr.  Schmidt  from  1898  to 
1903  with  good  success  and  from  time  to  time  had  noticed  that  those 
patients  into  whose  teats  he  permitted  a  liberal  amount  of  air  to 
enter  while  injecting  the  solution  made  much  quicker  and  more 
satisfactory  recoveries.  He,  therefore,  continued  to  be  liberal  with 
air  in  his  treatment  of  these  cases,  and  in  one  year,  viz.,  from  Janu- 
ary 1,  1903,  to  January  1,  1904,  treated  167  cases,  admitting  more 
and  more  air,  out  of  which  161  recovered,  only  six  being  lost.  On 
the  night  of  July  21,  1903,  he  was  called  to  the  farm  of  August 
Gnewuck  in  the  town  of  Lebanon,  Dodge  County,  Wisconsin,  to 
treat  a  cow  with  milk  fever.  While  getting  his  apparatus  sterilized 
(the  drug'  having  been  measured  out  and  the  water  ready  for  mak- 
ing the  solution)  Mr.  Gnewuck  told  several  funny  stories  which 
very  much  amused  the  writer.  In  the  meantime  the  udder  was  in- 
jected, the  cow  comforted  and  placed  on  her  sternum  and  the  owner 
given  his  instructions  and  requested  to  phone  about  the  condition 
of  the  patient  after  six  or  eight  hours.  After  the  writer  had  de- 
parted and  had  passed  the  six  mile  post  on  his  homeward  trip,  he 
discovered  that  he  had  forgotten  to  add  the  Potassium  Iodide  and 
had  really  injected  nothing  but  warm  water  and  a  liberal  amount  of 
air.  Fearing  that  his  client  would  report  before  morning  that  the 
patient's  condition  was  much  worse  on  account  of  this  mistake,  he 
could  not  sleep  but  waited  patiently  for  the  ring  of  the  telephone. 
When  after  the  fifth  hour  the  owner  telephoned  that  the  patient 
had  gone  to  her  stall  and  was  up  and  eating,  the  writer  was  indeed 
surprised.  But  it  at  once  became  apparent  to  him  that  the  Potas- 
sium lodid  was  not  the  curative  agent  in  this  treatment  and  from 
past  experience  he  concluded  that  the  oxygen  in  the  air  was  most 
likely  entitled  to  the  credit. 

Experiments  were  then  undertaken  with  two  succeeding  pa- 
tients, there  being  injected  a  liberal  amount  of  air  and  only  enough 


84  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETE 


warm  water  to  keep  the  air  from  returning.  Both  of  these  patients 
recovered  in  from  three  to  four  hours,  taking  less  time  than  was  the 
case  with  the  Potassium  Iodide  treatment.  This  discovery  was  re- 
ported to  the  Wisconsin  Society  of  Veterinary  Graduates  in  August, 
1903.  This  was  the  first  intimation  of  the  discovery  of  the  air 
treatment  and  on  January  29,  1903,  on  page  1170,  Volume  XXXIV 
of  "Hoard's  Dairyman"  under  the  veterinary  query  department,  of 
which  the  writer  was  editor,  he  wrote  and  published  the  first  article 
giving  credit  to  the  air  treatment. 

The  second  intimation  of  the  air  treatment  and  the  recom- 
mendation of  its  use  was  published  by  the  writer  February  12,  1904, 
on  page  18,  volume  XXXV  of  "Hoard's  Dairyman*'  while  answer- 
ing a  query  from  West  Concord,  which  called  for  information  re- 
garding the  oxygen  treatment.  It  was  after  this  second  article  on 
the  air  treatment  that  university  veterinary  departments  and 
veterinary  colleges  got  busy  announcing  the  discovery  of  the  air 
treatment  and  recommending  the  bicycle  pump  to  inflate  the  udder 
with  air,  but  none  of  them  gave  credit  to  "Hoard's  Dairyman,"  nor 
to  its  veterinarv  editor,  who  made  the  discoverv  on  lulv  21.  1903. 


CHAPTER   V. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Liver 
and  Kidneys 

CONGESTION   OF  THE   LIVER   (Hepatitis) 

Hepatitis  is  secondary  to  many  infectious  diseases  (influenza, 
blood  poison).  It  may  also  be  secondary  to  poisoning  with  arsenic 
or  phosphorus.  In  some  instances  the  cause  may  be  due  to  para- 
sites which  wander  into  the  liver  substance.  The  liver  is  congested, 
swollen,  spotted  with  dark  red  hemorrhages.  The  consistency  is 
softer  and  more  friable  than  normal.  There  will  be  a  marked  sensi- 
tiveness, upon  pressure,  on  the  region  of  the  liver. 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  is  not  very  satisfactory  as  its  connection  with 
other  diseases  makes  it  too  complicated,  even  for  the  most  accom- 
plished veterinarian. 


YELLOW  JAUNDICE 

This  is  a  yellowness  of  the  visible  mucous  membranes  of  the 
body,  which  is  an  indication  of  a  sluggish  liver  due  to  some  de- 
rangement of  the  digestive  and  other  vital  organs.  The  yellow  ap- 
pearance of  the  mucous  membranes  is  an  indication  of  bile  in  the 
blood,  which  has  been  reabsorbed  from  the  gall  bladder,  where  it 
should  have  been  discharged  into  the  alimentary  canal  under  natu- 
ral conditions,  but  for  some  reason  has  been  retained  in  the  gall 
bladder. 


TREATMENT 

Give  an  ounce  of  Aloes  and  ^^  dram  of  Calomel  in  a  ball  or 
drench  at  ,one  dose.  Then  follow  with  2  tablespoonfuls  of  Bovolax 
in  food  three  times  daily  for  two  weeks.  Avoid  heavy  feeding.  Feed 
bran  mashes  once  daily.  Grass  or  roots  should  be  the  main  diet. 
Good  clover  or  alfalfa  hav  is  better  than  timothv. 


86  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


GALL  STONES 

Gall  stones  arc  ven-  rare  in  animals.  They  occasionally  are 
met  with  in  cattle  and  dog's.  The  principal  symptoms  they  induce 
are  colic  and  digestive  disturbances. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  consists  of  large  doses  of  Bovolax  three  times 
dail\ ,  3  to  4  ounces  per  dose,  or  large  doses  of  Carl's  Bath  Salts. 


URINARY  TROUBLES 

Inability  to  pass  urine  is  common  in  horses  and  d<)gs,  but  not 
so  common  in  other  animals.  The  immediate  cause  of  the  retention 
of  urine  in  the  bladder  is  usually  partial  or  complete  paralysis  of  the 
sphincter  muscle  at  the  outlet  of  the  bladder.  Very  often  this  outlet 
is  only  closed  by  a  spasmodic  contraction  of  the  muscle  (occlusion) 
and  the  urine  is  retained  for  some  time.  In  such  cases  the  symptoms 
are  often  mistaken  for  colic. 


TREATMENT 

If  the  sphincter  muscle  is  paralyzed,  either  partially  or  entirely, 
tlie  urine  should  be  drawn  with  a  catheter  several  times  daily  and 
the  system  strengthened  with  Sanguitone  in  teaspoonful  doses,  three 
times  daily  until  relieved.  The  animal  should  be  placed  on  a  light 
diet  during  the  treatment  and  for  several  weeks  thereafter.  If  due 
to  the  latter,  viz.,  a  spasmodic  closure  (occlusion)  of  the  outlet  of 
the  bladder,  give  an  ounce  of  National  Specific  for  Urinary  Troubles 
and  Colic  in  several  ounces  of  water.  This  usually  brings  relief  in 
about  one-half  hour.  In  stubborn  cases  repeat  the  dose  in  an  hour, 
but  usuallv  one  do.-;e  is  suflicient. 


CHAPTER   VI. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Brain  and 
Nervous  System 

CEREBRAL  APOPLEXY 

Cerebral  apoplexy  is  a  rare  disease  among  cattle.  It  may  be 
due  to  degeneration  and  consequent  rupture  of  the  blood  vessel  in 
the  brain. 

SYMPTOMS  AND  TREATMENT 

The  attack  is  sudden,  the  animal  in  most  cases  falling  as  if  it 
had  received  a  blovs^  on  the  head.  It  may  stagger  and  reel  some 
time  before  going  down.  After  falling,  there  are  convulsive  move- 
ments of  the  legs  or  the  animal  sinks  into  insensibility.  There  may 
be  remissions  in  the  severity  of  the  symptoms,  but  the  pressure  from 
the  continued  escape  of  blood  soon  causes  death.  Rest,  quiet,  fric- 
tion to  the  legs  and  surface,  frequent  turning  of  the  animal  and  cold 
to  the  head  are  to  be  practiced,  if  treatment  is  attempted. 


CONGESTION  OF  THE  BRAIN 

There  is  a  form  of  congestive  apoplexy  affecting  cattle  which 
are  in  a  plethoric  condition.  The  congestion  or  overfilling  with 
blood,  causes  pressure  on  the  brain  substance  and  disorganizes  its 
function.  It  occurs  mostly  in  hot  weather.  In  this  disease  the 
symptoms  are  somewhat  similar  to  those  exhibited  when  the  animal 
has  inflammation  of  the  brain,  but  the  onset  is  more  sudden,  the 
duration  is  shorter  and  there  is  less  fever.  There  may  be  frenzy  or 
coma,  or  alternations,  one  with  the  other.  The  intelligence  is 
diminished,  staring  eyes,  bracing  with  the  legs,  pressing  against  the 
stall  partition  or  manger,  mucous  membranes  become  red.  This 
condition  usuallv  terminates  in  recovery. 


88  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


TREATMENT 

In  such  cases  bleeding  should  be  resorted  to  immediately. 
When  the  power  of  swallowing  is  not  lost,  purgatives  should  be 
administered.    Cold  applications  to  the  head  should  be  made. 


CONCUSSION  OF  THE  BRAIN 

Severe  blows  on  the  head,  striking  the  head  against  some  hard 
object  while  running,  or  falling  on  the  head,  may  cause  concussion 
of  the  brain. 


SYMPTOMS  AND  TREATMENT 

The  symptoms  and  the  treatment  that  is  indicated  differ  very  little 
from  what  has  been  said  under  congestion  of  the  brain.  In  some  cases 
it  may  be  necessary  to  remove  a  piece  of  bone  that  is  pressing  on  the 
brain  or  to  remove  a  clot  of  blood  under  the  area  that  received  the 
blow. 


EPILEPSY 

This  affection  is  characterized  by  the  occurrence  of  sudden  con- 
vulsions. The  animal  may  appear  to  be  in  a  fair  state  of  health 
usually,  but  at  any  time,  in  the  stable  or  in  the  field,  it  may  have  a 
convulsion  in  which  it  will  fall  and  lose  consciousness.  Epilepsy 
must  not  be  confounded  with  vertigo — fainting  which  is  an  effect 
of  heart  troubles. 

The  exact  cause  of  epilepsy  in  the  majority  of  cases  is  unknown. 
Post  mortem  examinations  in  many  instances  have  failed  to  discover 
any  lesion  in  connection  with  the  brain  or  nervous  system ;  while  in 
other  instances  disease  of  the  brain  has  been  found  in  the  form  of 
thickening  of  the  membranes,  abscesses,  and  tumors.  In  some  cases 
the  affection  has  been  manifested  in  connection  with  a  diseased  con- 
dition of  the  blood.  The  cause  has  also  been  traced  to  reflex  irrita- 
tion, due  to  teething,  worms  and  chronic  indigestion. 


TREATMENT 

When  the  affection  is  due  to  the  last  named  causes  the  treat- 
ment may  be   successful,  if  the  cause  is  removed.     If  there  are 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  89 


symptoms  of  worms  or  of  indigestion,  follow  the  general  treatment 
advised  for  those  troubles  under  their  proper  heads  in  this  book. 
If  due  to  irritation  caused  by  teething,  the  inflamed  gums  must  be 
lanced.  Examination  of  the  mouth  often  develops  the  fact  that  one 
of  the  temporary  teeth  causes  much  irritation  by  remaining  unshed, 
and  thereby  interfering  with  the  growth  of  a  permanent  tooth.  The 
offending  tooth  should  be  extracted.  When  the  cause  of  epilepsy 
cannot  be  discovered,  it  must  be  confessed  that  there  is  no  prospect 
of  a  cure.  Some  benefit  may  be  expected  from  the  occasional  ad- 
ministration of  a  purgative  dose  of  medicine.  A  pound  of  Epsom 
Salts  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water,  for  a  cow  of  average  size, 
may  be  given  as  a  drench  once  or  twice  a  week.  In  addition  to  the 
purgative,  4  drams  of  Bromid  of  Potassium,  dissolved  in  the  drink- 
ing water,  three  times  a  day,  has  proved  very  beneficial  in  some 
cases. 


SUNSTROKE  (Prostration  from  Heat) 

Owing  to  the  fact  that  cattle  are  seldom  put  to  work  at  which 
they  would  have  to  undergo  severe  exertion,  especially  in  collars, 
they  are  not  frequently  prostrated  by  the  extreme  heat  of  the  sum- 
mer months.  When  at  pasture  they  select  the  coolest  places  under  the 
shade  trees,  in  water,  etc.,  when  the  heat  becomes  oppressive,  and 
thereby  avoid,  as  much  as  possible,  the  effects  of  it.  Horses,  how- 
ever, are  more  subject  to  this  trouble,  because  they  are  compelled 
to  work  under  the  direct  rays  of  the  hot  sun. 

It  does  happen,  however,  that  cattle  that  have  been  kept  up  for 
the  purpose  of  fattening,  when  driven  some  distance  in  very  hot 
w^eather,  are  sometimes  prostrated,  but  it  must  be  remembered  that 
it  is  not  really  necessary  for  the  animal  to  be  exposed  to  the  rays  of 
the  sun,  as  those  confined  in  hot,  close  places  may  suffer.  This  often 
happens  in  shipping,  when  they  are  crowded  close  together  in  cars. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  first  stages  are  those  of  exhaustion — dullness,  panting, 
frothing  at  the  mouth,  tongue  hanging  out,  irregular  gait,  uneasi- 
ness, palpitation — when,  if  the  circumstances  which  tend  to  the 
prostration  are  not  mitigated,  the  animal  staggers  or  sways  from 
side  to  side,  falls,  struggles  for  a  while,  and  then  gradually  becomes 
quiet,  or  the  struggles  may  continue,  with  repeated  but  ineffectual 


90  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


efforts  to  regain  a  standing  position.  In  serious  cases  the  attack 
may  be  very  sudden,  unconsciousness  occurring  without  continued 
or  distressing  premonitory  symptoms. 

TREATMENT 

At  first,  when  not  very  serious,  renimal  to  a  quiet,  sheltered 
place,  with  a  few  days  on  a  reduced  diet,  is  all  that  need  be  done. 
When  the  animal  has  fallen,  dash  cold  water  or  ice  water  on  the 
head ;  rub  the  body  and  limlas  with  cloths  or  wisps  of  straw,  and 
continue  the  rubbing  for  a  considerable  time.  If  the  power  of  swal- 
lowing is  not  lost  (which  may  be  ascertained  by  pouring  a  little 
cold  water  into  the  mouth),  give  three  drams  of  stronger  Hquor, 
ammonia  diluted  with  a  quart  of  cold  water.  Be  very  careful  in 
drenching  the  animal  when  lying  down.  Repeat  the  drench  in  a 
half  hour,  and  an  hour  after  the  first  one  has  been  given.  Instead 
of  ammonia,  a  drench' composed  of  Spirits  of  Nitrous  Ether  in  a 
pint  of  water  may  be  given,  if  more  convenient,  but  the  ammonia 
drench  is  preferable.  If  unconsciousness  continues,  so  that  a  drench 
cannot  be  administered,  the  same  quantity  of  ammonia  and  water 
may  be  injected  with  a  syringe  into  the  rectum.  The  popular  aqua 
ammonia,  commonly  called  "Hartshorn,"  will  do  as  well  as  the 
stronger  liquor  ammonia,  but  as  it  is  weaker  than  the  latter,  the 
dose  for  a  cow  is  about  1^/2  ounces,  which  should  be  diluted  with  a 
quart  of  water  before  it  is  given  to  the  animal,  either  as  a  drench 
or  an  enema.  When  ammonia  cannot  be  obtained  a  pint  of  whiskey 
in  a  quart  of  water,  or  an  ounce  of  tincture  of  Digitalis  may  be 
given. 

As  soon  as  the  animal  is  able  to  rise  it  should  be  assisted  and 
moved  to  the  nearest  shelter.  All  the  cold  water  it  will  drink  should 
be  allowed.  The  ammonia  or  spirits  of  nitrous  ether  drench  should 
be  administered  every  three  hours  so  long  as  there  is  much  failure 
of  strength.  The  diet  should  be  limited  for  several  days — bran  slops 
and  a  little  grass.  When  signs  of  returning  strength  are  presented. 
6  ounces  of  Bovolax  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water  may  be 
given  in  those  cases  which  have  been  down  and  unconscious,  but 
not  give  it  while  much  weakness  remains,  which  may  be  for  several 
days  after  the  attack.  The  flesh  of  an  animal  that  is  suffering  from 
heat  stroke  should  not  be  prepared  for  use  as  food.  On  account  of 
the  fever  with  which  the  animal  suffers,  the  Hesh  contains  toxins 
that  may  render  it  poisonous  to  the  consumer. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


91 


PARALYSIS 


-  --    '--*C  ^^i^P^^  -'F  "*' 


Hog  suffering  from  paralysis  of  liiiul  limbs 


Paralysis,  or  loss  of  motion  in  a  part,  may  be  due  to  a  lesion 
of  the  brain,  of  the  spinal  cord,  or  of  a  nerve.  It  may  also  be  caused 
by  reflex  irritation.  When  the  paralysis  affects  both  sides  of  the 
body,  posterior  to  a  point,  it  is  further  designated  by  the  name 
parapelgia.  When  one  side  of  the  body  (a  lateral  half)  is  paralyzed, 
the  term  hemiplegia  is  applied  to  the  affection.  When  paralysis 
is  caused  by  a  lesion  of  a  nerve,  the  paralysis  is  confined  to  the  par- 
ticular part  supplied  by  the  afifected  nerve. 

Paralysis  may  be  due  to  concussion  of  the  spine,  fracture  of  a 
bone  of  the  spinal  column  with  consequent  compression  of  the 
spinal  cord,  concussion  of  the  brain,  or  compression  of  the  brain. 
An  injury  to  one  side  of  the  brain  may  produce  paralysis  of  the 
same  side  of  the  head,  and  of  the  opposite  side  of  the  body,  hemi- 
plegia. Paralysis  may  occur  in  connection  with  parturient  apoplex}-. 
lead  poisoning,  ergotism,  etc. 


92  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


TREATMENT 

Almost  all  farm  animals  are  subject  to  paralysis  due  to  the 
above  mentioned  causes,  but  hogs  very  frequently  become  paralyzed 
in  the  hind  quarters,  which  is  said  to  be  due  to  early  and  constant 
feeding  of  corn  while  the  pig  is  in  its  growing  age.  Apply  mustard 
to  the  region  of  the  spine.  Turpentine  and  lard  will  answer  in  the 
absence  of  mustard.  Some  authorities  recommend  the  firing-iron. 
Internally  give  Bovolax  to  relax  the  bowels  and  tone  the  nervous 
system.  This  may  be  followed  by  teaspoonful  doses  of  powdered 
Nux  Vomica  in  food  three  times  daily.  This  dose  is  for  horses  and 
cattle.  Smaller  animals  must  be  given  less  according  to  size  and 
age. 


CHAPTER   V/I. 

Practical  Aid  in  Difficult  Parturition 

THE   TIME   OF  PARTURITION 

The  time  of  parturition  has  arrived  according  to  the  breeding 
book,  which  contains  the  record  of  service,  etc.  There  are,  however, 
symptoms  shown  by  the  pregnant  animals,  which  afford  reHable  indi- 
cations of  the  nearness  of  the  act.  The  sweUing  of  the  external  genitals 
(vulva)  enlargement  of  the  udder,  hollo wness  of  the  rump,  especially 
in  cows,  of  the  space  between  the  pin  bones  and  the  tail  head,  wax  on 
the  teats  in  mares,  a  flow  of  milk,  making  of  the  bed  by  sows,  glisten- 
ing appearance  of  the  udder,  uneasiness,  a  desire  for  solitude,  slight 
pains  gradually  increasing,  followed  by  the  pushing  forth  of  the  water 
bag  and  the  possible  escape  of  its  contents  show  that  labor  is  not  only 
close,  but  that  it  has  started. 

DELIVERY 

If  all  goes  well,  the  head  and  fore  feet  are  presented  (sometimes 
the  hind  feet)  and  the  voung  animal  is  in  a  short  time  in  a  new  world. 
(See  Fig.  49.) 

The  natural  delivery  in  mares  is  of  short  duration,  only  five  to 
fifteen  minutes  usually  elapsing  after  extrusion  of  the  water  bag;  the 
cow  may  take  one  to  two  hours  to  deliver  the  calf,  extending  to  that 
many  days.  Ewes  take  about  fifteen  minutes  to  deliver  or  less,  and  if 
twins  are  present  the  intervals  between  births  may  be  from  fifteen  min- 
utes to  two  hours  or  even  days.  Assistance  should  not  be  offered  until 
the  water  bag  sliows. 

The  sow  takes  a  variable  time  to  deliver,  depending  on  the  number 
of  pigs — may  take  from  ten  minutes  to  several  hours.  In  natural  cases 
little  assistance  is  needed,  and  when  given  should  be  of  the  right  kind ; 
the  attendants  should  only  apply  traction  when  the  young  animal  is  in 
the  right  position,  and  only  when  the  expulsive  effort  is  being  made  ; 
the  direction  of  the  traction  should  be  away  from  the  back  bone,  that 
is  towards  the  hocks  of  the  dam,  downward  if  the  animal  is  standing. 
The  foal  is  often  born  in  its  membranes,  and  should  be  released  im- 
mediately from  them,  especially  about  the  head ;  any  mucus  present 
being  removed  from  the  mouth  and  nostrils.     The  membranes  of  the 


94 


RURAL  TETERiyARY  SECRETS 


FIG.   49. 
Natural  position  of  tlic  foctn? 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  95 


calf  and  lamb  do  not  always  follow  right  after  delivery;  in  the  cow 
they  remain  for  days ;  in  the  ewe  rarely  so ;  while  in  the  sow  it  is  the 
exception  for  such  to  occur;  the  reason  for  retention  of  the  membranes 
in  ruminants  (cow  and  ewe)  is  due  to  the  peculiarity  of  the  attachment 
of  the  membranes  in  those  animals,  which  will  be  remembered  from 
the  description  of  arrangement  of  the  mucous  (lining)  membrane  of 
the  uterus  in  those  animals. 


DIFFICULT    DELIVERIES 

If  the  presentation  has  been  right,  the  usual  labor  is  of  short  dura- 
tion, if  however,  the  pains  have  begun  and  presisted  for  a  long  time 
without  delivery,  some  hindrance  to  the  normal  delivery  may  be  sus- 
pected, the  cause  of  such  unnatural  happenings  are  numerous;  may  be 
due  to  wrong  presentation,  such  as  two  hind  legs  coming  together ;  the 
foetus  coming  upside  down  (see  Fig.  No.  50,  Sterna  Abnormal  Posi- 
tion) or  with  the  head  turned  back,  excess  in  volume  of  the  fetus, 
contraction  of  the  genital  passages,  enlargement  of  the  head,  due  to 
tumors,  etc.  In  such  cases  the  employment  of  a  veterinarian  is  ad- 
visable and  profitable,  because  he  is  acquainted  with  the  parts,  has  the 
proper  instruments  and  drugs.  The  time  of  calling  the  professional 
man  should  not  be  left  until  the  dam  is  exhausted  or  injvu'ed  internally 
from  the  movement  of  the  fetus ;  the  longer  such  cases  are  left  the 
greater  the  danger  of  inflammation  of  the  womb  or  tearing  or  wound- 
ing internally  of  the  dam.  If  the  stockman  is  sufficiently  expert  let  him 
bare  his  arm  to  the  shoulder,  anoint  with  carbolized  oil,  one  part  of  car- 
bolic acid  to  ten  linseed  oil,  or  hog's  lard,  introduce  the  arm  into  the 
passage  and  endeavor  to  find  the  cause  of  the  trouble.  If  a  head  and 
one  foreleg  are  shown  fasten  ropes  (one- fourth  inch)  on  the  parts, 
push  them  forward  into  cavity  and  then  try  and  get  the  missing  limb, 
raise  it  and  bring  all  into  the  natural  position,  the  head  between  the 
two  forefeet  (See  Fig.  49)  ;  if  the  head  is  down  and  the  forefeet 
presented,  rope  each  foot,  push  them  forward  and  try  to  raise  the  head 
and  bring  it  towards  you  along  with  the  feet  (See  Figs.  52,  53,  54,  55, 
56  and  57).  The  stockman  will,  .on  examination,  better  understand 
the  conditions  than  from  any  written  directions,  and  will  be  successful 
according  as  he  adapts  himself  to  meet  these  conditions.  Mares  and 
cows  are  more  easily  delivered  when  in  the  standing  position;  if  they 
lie  down  and  the  work  becomes  harder  to  perform.  In  case  of 
twins  care  must  be  taken  not  to  rope  one  leg  of  each  twin,  but 
to  make  sure  that  you  keep  each  individual  separate  and  take  one 
at  a  time.  (See  Fig.  51,  Twin  Pregnancy).  In  cases  of  difficult 
delivery  in   ewes   an   assistant   may  be   got  to  hold   the   cwc  with 


96 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRET,^  97 


FIG.  51 
Twin   Pregnancy — Co\ 


98  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


the  hind  legs  up  in  the  air,  the  head  down,  thus  throwing  the 
bowels  downwards  and  consequently  giving  more  room  to  work,  or  the 
ewe  may  be  turned  on  her  back,  but  kept  in  this  position  only  for  a 
short  time.  In  animals  running  overtime  Nature  is  generally  allowed 
to  take  its  course ;  it  might  be  advisable  in  mares  that  have  gone  over- 
time, and  who  have  had  milk  in  their  udders  for  a  few  days,  to  attempt 
delivery. 

ATTENTION   TO   THE   NEWBORN 

'i'he  treatment  of  the  young  animals  is  not  very  formidabk-,  as 
stated;  remove  the  membranes,  clean  out  the  mouth  and  nostrils; 
examine  also  to  see  if  the  newborn  has  the  natural  apertures  for  the 
passage  of  urine  or  feces.  In  some  cases  attention  to  the  navel 
string  should  be  cut  about  one  and  one-half  inches  from  the  body 
and  securely  tied  and  thoroughly  dressed  with  Dermasote  or  Elk's 
Absorbing  Ointment  daily,  until  it  dries  up,  shrivels  and  drops  off. 
In  lambs,  calves  and  pigs  slight  scraping  of  the  finger  nail  on  the 
cord  will  sever  the  string  and  prevent  bleeding.  If  life  seems  about 
gone,  whip  with  a  wet  towel,  work  the  fore  limbs,  breathe  into  the 
nostrils  at  intervals  coinciding  with  the  limb  movements,  pull  the 
tongue  gently  forward,  then  let  it  retract  and  again  pull  forward, 
repeating  the  movements  at  intervals  for  ten  or  fifteen  minutes  or 
longer,  rub  the  body  dry,  and  bring  to  a  warm  place,  a  slight  stimu- 
lant such  as  brandy  and  water  or  a  little  sweet  nitre  and  warm  milk 
may  also  be  given  with  benefit.  Get  the  newborn  to  suckle  as  soon 
as  possible  so  that  it  may  get  the  action  of  the  first  milk  (colostrum  ) 
and  thus  remove  the  meconium  (the  accumulated  excrement  of  fet;il 
life).  The  meconium  may  have  to  be  removed;  use  the  oiled  finger, 
or  injections  of  warm  water  and  oil;  avoid  giving  purgatives;  foals 
are  often  started  scouring,  and  are  lost  as  a  result  of  giving  some 
medicine.  A  heaped  teaspoonful  of  fresh  (unsalted)  butter  may  be 
given  to  the  foal  with  good  results  if  a  little  constipated  ;  if  a  ewe 
refuses  her  lamb,  the  one  refused  (in  case  of  twins)  should  be 
rubbed  over  with  the  one  taken,  or  if  one  is  dead,  skin  it  and  put 
the  skin  on  over  the  one  refused,  or  put  the  ewe  and  refused  lamb 
together  by  themselves  for  a  time.  In  case  of  ewes  the  wool  should 
be  trimmed  around  the  udder  to  allow  the  lambs  to  get  at  the  teat, 
this  will  also  prevent  the  lamb  sucking  the  wool,  with  the  result 
sometimes  of  wool-balls  in  the  stomachs.  After  getting  the  young- 
animal  to  suckle  once,  leave  the  dam  and  oft"spring  to  themselves; 
if  the  afterbirth  has  come  away,  remove  and  bury;  the  disgusting- 
practice  of  letting  animals  eat  the  membranes  should  not  be  per- 
mitted. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  99 


TREATMENT    OF   THE    DAM 

The  treatment  of  the  dam  after  delivery  will  determine  to  a 
g:reat  extent  the  growth  and  development  of  the  offspring,  if  the 
dam  is  limited  in  quantity  of  food,  or  poor  quality  given,  the  off- 
spring will  be  weak,  stunted  or  of  small  growth.  Keep  the  dam 
comfortable  and  do  not  annoy  with  many  attentions,  if  at  all  chilled, 
blanket,  give  warm  mashes,  laxative  food  (grass,  clover,  hay,  bran 
and  oats)  milk  and  water  with  the  chill  off  for  a  few  days.  If 
intending  to  show  foals  the  dam  had  better  not  be  worked,  if  not 
the  dam  may  be  worked  for  a  quarter  of  a  day,  later  half  days  until 
getting  back  to  the  usual  routine,  if  worked  the  foals  should  be 
placed  in  boxes  together  and  fed.  Entire  rest  from  work  should 
1>f  allowed  mares  for  at  least  a  week  after  foaling. 


100 


RURAL  VETERINARY  HECRETH 


FIG.   52 

CEPHALO-SACRAL  POSITION  OF  THE  FOETUS. 

This  position  can  hardly  be  changed  into  normal  without  the  aid  of  in- 
struments and  a  skillful  veterinarian. 


As  it  is  almost  impossible  for  the  layman  to  gain  access,  to 
either  the  head,  or  extremities,  where  he  might  possibly  attach  the 
rope  or  ordinary  hooks  in  an  attempt  to  turn  the  foetus.  The  human 
arm  is  not  long  enough  to  make  a  proper  exploration  of  the  exist- 
ing conditions,  therefore  no  time  should  be  lost  in  calling  in  an 
(expert.  Even  the  most  skilled  veterinarian  is  not  always  successful 
in  bringing  about  a  favorable  delivery  in  such  cases,  especially  when 
the  patient  has  been  allowed  to  go  unattended  for  a  long  time.  The 
foetus  very  often  dies  before  the  owner's  attention  is  aroused  be- 
cause the  patient,  as  a  rule,  refrains  from  violent  straining  because 
of  the  unusual  position  of  the  foetus. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  i^EVRETti 


101 


"  "  V.   /€(F  ^aiss^-^ 


FIG.    S3 
Right   Ccplialo-ilial   Position  of  the   Foetus 


This  position  is  also  a  very  difficult  one  to  deliver,  but  is  con- 
sidered a  little  more  favorable  than  the  one  presented  in  fig-.  52,  as 
the  operator  is  liable  to  reach  the  tail  of  the  foetus  more  easily,  by 
which  he  might  be  able  to  efifect  a  material  change  in  the  position 
(tf  the  foetus.  By  manipulation  of  the  same,  he  can  very  often  hold 
his  own  until  he  gains  access  to  one  of  the  hind  limbs,  in  which  case 
the  body  of  the  foetus  is  pushed  forward  into  the  genital  cavity  of 
the  dam.  both  of  the  posterior  limbs  drawn  out  and  the  youngster 
delivered  backwards,  viz.,  hind  limbs  and  tail  first. 


102 


RURAL  VETERINARY  HECRETH 


FIG.    54 

Anterior  i'rcscnlation — Forclinibs  bent  al   llic  kiu-f. 

Ill  this  case  it  may  be  necessary  to  cut  off  tlic  liead  in  order  to  gel  bolli 
front  feet  in  normal  position. 


This  of  course,  is  only  necessary  when  the  foetus  is  pretty  well 
advanced  into  the  pelvic  cavity  and  it  has  become  extremely  diffi- 
cult to  repell  the  foetal  body  far  enoug^h  to  enable  the  operator  to 
straig:htcn  out  the  front  lej^s.  After  this  has  been  done  successfully, 
a  hook  should  be  fastened  to  the  remaining-  skin  around  the  neck 
by  which  the  same  can  be  directed  and  kept  in  the  natural  channel. 
'I'raction  may  now  be  applied  to  both  fore  limbs  and  the  remaining 
l>ait  (.f  the  neck. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  103 


FIG.   55 
Anterior  presentation — Fore  limb  crossed  over  tlic  neck. 
In  tliis  presentation  straighten  ont  the  crossed  leg  and  apply  traction. 

Care  must  be  taken  that  the  head  remains  above  the  two  fore 
limbs  while  traction  is  on,  as  it  is  very  likely  to  slip  back  into  its 
former  unnatural  position  and  help  obstruct  the  natural  channel 
through  which  it  must  pass  quite  easily  if  kept  in  proper  place. 


104 


RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS 


FIG.    5fi 
y\iitciior  FioscnlHlioii— Kxtreiue  dowiuvard  deviation  of  tli 


head. 


Secure  both  front  legs  witli  ropes,  press  the  foetus  back  into  tlie  nlcviis 
far  enough  to  bring  the  head  into  the  natural  channel.     Then  apply  Iraclioti 


RURAL   VETERINARY  ^EVRET8  105 


Deviation  of  the  hind-limbs   in    llu-   ptlvis   in    the  anterior  presentation. 


Be  sure  to  repel  the  hind  leg  back  into  llie  uterine  cavity  before  you 
apply  traction. 


These  are  very  often  mistaken  for  the  fore  limbs  and  tend  to 
confuse  the  operator,  very  often  tempting  him  to  attach  his  ropes  to 
one  hind  and  one  fore  Hmb,  which  will  result  in  fatal  termination, 
should  you  persist  in  applying  forceful  traction. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

Common  Diseases  of  the  Skin 

ERYTHEMA 

Acute  inflammation  of  the  skin,  attended  with  eruptions  and 
small  pimples  or  pustules,  common  to  all  classes  of  horses  in  hot 
weather. 

This  is  a  congested  or  slightly  inflammed  condition  of  the  skin, 
unattended  by  any  eruption.  The  part  is  lightly  swollen,  hot,  tender 
or  itchy,  and  dry,  and  if  the  skin  is  white  there  is  redness.  The 
redness  is  effaced  by  pressure,  but  reappears  instantly  when  the 
pressure  is  removed.  Unless  in  transient  cases  the  hair  are  liable 
to  be  shed.  It  may  be  looked  on  as  the  first  stage  of  inflammation 
and  therefore  when  it  becomes  aggravated  it  may  merge  in  part 
or  in  whole  into  a  papular,  vesicular,  or  pustular  eruption. 

Erythema  may  arise  from  a  variety  of  causes  and  is  often  named 
in  accordance  with  its  most  prominent  cause.  Thus  the  chilling,  or 
partial  freezing,  of  a  part  will  give  rise  to  a  severe  reaction  and 
congestion.  Where  snow  or  icy  streets  have  been  salted  this  may 
extend  to  severe  inflammation  with  vesicles,  pustules,  or  even 
sloughs  of  circumscribed  portions  of  the  skin  of  the  pastern  (chill- 
blain,  frostbite).  Heat  and  burning  have  a  similar  effect,  and  this 
often  comes  from  exposure  to  the  direct  rays  of  the  sun.  The  skin 
that  does  not  perspire  is  the  most  subject  and  hence  the  white  face 
or  white  limb  of  a  horse  becoming  dried  by  the  intensity  of  the  sun's 
rays  often  suffers  to  the  exclusion  of  the  rest  of  the  body  (white  face 
and  foot  disease).  The  febrile  state  of  the  general  system  is  also  a 
])otent  cause,  hence  the  white-skinned  horse  is  rendered  the  more 
liable  if  kept  on  a  heating  ration  of  buckwheat,  or  even  of  wheat  or 
maize.  Contact  of  the  skin  with  oil  of  turpentine  or  other  essential 
oils,  with  irritant  liquids,  vegetable  or  mineral,  with  rancid  fats, 
with  the  acrid  secretions  of  certain  animals,  like  the  irritated  toad, 
with  pus,  sweat,  tears,  urine,  or  liquid  feces,  will  produce  congestion 
of  even  inflammation.  Chafing  is  a  common  cause,  and  is  especially 
liable  to  affect  the  fat  horse  between  the  thighs,  by  the  side  of  the 
sheath  or  scrotum,  on  the  inner  side  of  the  elbow,  or  where  the  har- 
ness chafes  on  the  poll,  shoulder,  back,  breast-bone,  and  under  the 
tail.  The  accumulation  of  sweat  and  dust  between  the  folds  of  the 
skin  and  on  the  surface  of  the  harness,  and  the  specially  acrid  char- 


108  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


acter  of  the  sweat  iti  certain  horses  contribute  to  chafing  or  "in- 
tertrigo." The  heels  often  become  congested,  owing  to  the  irrita- 
tion caused  by  the  short  bristly  hair  in  clipped  heels.  Again,  con- 
gestion may  occur  from  friction  by  halter,  harness,  or  other  foreign 
body  under  the  pastern,  or  inside  the  thigh  or  arm,  or  by  reason  of 
blows  from  another  foot  (cutting,  interfering,  overreach).  Finally, 
erythema  is  especially  liable  to  occur  in  spring  when  the  coat  is  be- 
ing shed,  and  the  hair  follicles  and  general  surface  are  exposed  and 
irritable  in  connection  with  the  dropping  of  the  hair. 

If  due  only  to  local  irritant,  congestion  will  usually  disap])car 
when  such  cause  has  been  removed,  but  when  the  feeding  or  system 
is  at  fault  these  conditions  must  be  first  corrected.  While  the  cost 
is  being  shed  the  susceptibility  will  continue,  and  the  aim  should 
be  to  prevent  the  disease  developing  and  advancing  so  as  to  weaken 
the  skin,  render  the  susceptibility  permanent,  and  lay  the  founda- 
tion of  persistent  or  frequently  recurring  skin  disease.  Hence  at 
such  times  the  diet  should  be  nonstimulating;  any  excess  of  grain 
and  above  all  of  buckwheat,  Indian  corn,  or  wheat  being  avoided. 
A  large  grain  ration  should  not  be  given  at  once  on  return  from 
hard  work,  when  the  general  system  and  stomach  arc  unable  to 
cope  with  it;  the  animal  should  not  be  given  more  than  a  swalloAv 
or  t\\()  of  cold  water  when  perspiritig  and  fatigued;  nor  should  he 
be  allowed  a  full  supply  of  water  just  aftei-  his  grain  ration;  he 
should  not  be  overheated,  or  exhausted  by  the  liarness  pressing  on 
the  skin.  The  exposure  of  the  afifected  heels  to  damp,  mud  and 
snow,  and,  above  all,  to  melting  snow,  should  be  guarded  against; 
light,  smooth,  well-fitting  harness  must  be  secured,  and  where  the 
saddle  or  collar  irritates  an  incision  should  be  made  in  them  above 
and  below  the  part  that  chafes,  and,  the  padding  between  having 
been  removed,  the  lining  should  be  beaten  so  as  to  make  a  hollow. 
A  zinc  shield  in  the  upi)cr  angle  of  the  collar  will  often  i)rcveiit 
chafing  in  front  of  the  withers. 

TREATMENT 

Wash  the  chafed  skin  and  ap])ly  a  salt  and  w.ilcr  solution  con- 
sisting of  one-half  ounce  of  salt  to  each  quart  of  watei-,  camphorated 
spirits,  or  a  weak  solution  of  oak  bark.  If  the  surface  is  raw,  dust 
over  wMth  starch  and  smear  with  Dermasote  Ointment.  To  relieve 
the  constitutional  disturbance  gi\c  one  to  two  tablespoonfuls  of 
Sanguitone  (National)  in  moist  food  three  times  daily.  This  is  usu- 
all\-  followed  by  a  rapid  recovery.  \'ou  should  notice  a  markeil 
inii'iox  cmcnt  in  from  48  to  70  houis. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETE  109 


SCALY  SKIN  DISEASE  (Pityriasis) 

This  afifection  is  characterized  by  an  excessive  production  and 
detachment  of  dry  scales  from  the  surface  of  the  skin  (dandruft). 
It  is  usually  dependent  on  some  fault  in  digestion  and  an  imperfect 
secretion  from  the  sebaceous  glands,  and  is  most  common  in  old 
horses  with  spare  habit  of  body.  Williams  attributes  it  to  food 
rich  in  saccharine  matter  (carrots,  turnips)  and  to  the  excretion  of 
the  skin  of  oxalic  acid.  He  has  found  it  in  horses  irregularly  worked 
and  well  fed,  and  advises  the  administration  of  pitch  for  a  length  of 
time  and  the  avoidance  of  saccharine  food.  Otherwise  the  horse 
may  take  two  or  three  ounces  of  Bovolax  in  moist  food  three  times 
flaily  to  relax  the  bowels.  Then  follow  with  one  to  two  tablespoon- 
fuls  of  Sanguitone  (National)  in  moist  food  twice  or  three  times 
daily  until  the  patient  has  made  a  complete  recovery. 


BARNYARD  ITCH  (Ring  Worms) 

Barnyard  itch,  often  called  ringworms,  usually  appears  as  white 
scurfy  abrasions  around  the  eyes,  neck,  shoulders  and  sometimes 
the  bodies  of  young  stock  during  the  winter  and  spring. 


TREATMENT 

The  parts  afifected  should  be  cleaned  with  a  stiff  brush,  warm 
water  and  soap.  When  dry,  rub  well  with  Dermasote.  Repeat  in 
a  week  or  ten  days  if  necessary.  Usually  one  application  is  suf- 
ficient for  a  complete  cure.  Dermasote  is  non-irritating  and  non- 
poisonous.  Therefore,  it  is  abst)lutely  safe  to  apply  without  fear  of 
poisoning  animals  when  licking  each  other. 


ITCH   IN   HORSES 

Itching  is  due  to  one  (jf  tv\o  causes.  First,  there  may  be  a 
parasite  on  the  skin,  such  as  ordinary  lice  or  intradermal  parasites 
which  irritate  the  skin  and  bring  about  the  itching.  It  may  be  due 
to  a  humor  in  the  blood,  such  as  erythema  or  eczema.  If  it  be  the 
former,  a  two  per  cent  solution  of  lysol  should  be  applied  to  the 
entire  surface  which  appears  to  be  affected,  twice  or  three  times  a 


110  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


week.  The  hair  should  be  thoroughly  soaked  to  the  skin  so  as  to 
come  in  direct  contact  with  the  offending  parasites.  This  will  af- 
ford immediate  relief,  if  due  to  the  first  cause.  If  from  the  second 
cause,  the  animal  should  be  given  a  saline  purgative  such  as  a  pound 
of  Bovolax  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water.  Give  one  pint  as  a 
drench  morning  and  night.  Then  give  one  tablespoonful  of  Sangui- 
tone  in  moist  food  three  times  daily. 


NETTLE  RASH  (Urticaria  or  Surfeit) 

This  is  a  mild  inflammatory  affection  of  the  skin  affecting  cat- 
tle and  horses  most  frequently,  characterized  by  a  sudden  develop- 
ment of  patches  of  various  sizes  from  that  of  a  nickel  to  one  as 
large  as  the  hand.  The  patches  of  raised  skin  are  marked  by  an 
abrupt  border  and  are  irregular  in  form.  All  the  swelling  may  dis- 
appear in  a  few  days,  or  it  may  go  away  in  one  place  and  reappear 
on  another  part  of  the  body.  It  is  always  accompanied  by  a  great 
desire  to  rub  the  affected  part.  In  the  simplest  type,  as  just  de- 
scribed, it  is  never  followed  by  any  serious  exudations  or  eruptions, 
unless  the  surface  of  the  skin  becomes  abraded  from  scratching  or 
rubbing. 


CAUSES 

Derangement  of  the  digestive  organs  are  the  most  common 
causes,  such  as  overloading  the  stomach  when  the  animal  is  turned 
out  to  graze  in  the  spring,  certain  constituents  of  food,  and  high 
feeding  among  fattening  stock.  When  the  kidneys  are  functionally 
deranged  urticaria  may  appear.  Spinal  irritation  and  other  nervous 
aff'ections  may  Cause  it.  The  disease  consists  of  a  paralysis  of  the 
nerve  ends  that  control  the  volume  of  the  capillary  vessels  in  cer- 
tain areas  of  skin,  thus  permitting  the  vessels  to  expand  and  their 
contents  in  part  to  exude,  producing  a  soft,  circumscribed  swelling. 

TREATMENT 

Dissolve  a  pound  package  of  Bovolax  in  a  gallon  of  ivarm 
water.  Give  a  quart  as  a  drench  every  three  hours.  Then  follow 
with  a  teaspoonful  of  Sanguitone  in  moist  food  three  times  daily 
for  a  week  or  ten  days.  This  dose  is  for  adult  horses  or  cattle;  for 
smaller  animals,  give  smaller  doses  according  to  size  and  age. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  HECRETS 


111 


ise   of   urtic;iria   alter   the    UMial    swellings    of    the    muzzle   and 
eyes  have  disappeared. 


112  RURAL  VETERINARY  SfECRETS 

SCRATCHES  (Mud  Fever) 


Scratches. 

Scratches,  also  known  as  erythema  and  mud  fever,  are  usually 
due  to  a  hunior  in  the  blood  which  breaks  out  at  the  fetlock  be- 
cause this  part  of  the  limb  is  most  exposed  to  moisture  and  tilth, 
which,  acted  upon  by  the  cold  air,  cause  eruptions  of  the  skin  and 
possible  infection.  Considerable  fever  and  swelling  will  be  noticed  ; 
then  skin  eruptions  take  place.  The  animal  usually  starts  out  lame 
and  the  parts  are  very  sensitive  to  the  touch. 

Grease  Leg  is  a  term  applied  to  chronic  cases  of  Scratches  cor 
Mud  Fever.  This  is  the  resul't  the  owner  or  attendant  neglecting 
to  relieve  the  patient  by  giving  proper  treatment  or  applying  irri 
tants,  such  as  liniments  or  blisters.  The  erroneous  idea  of  applying 
filthy  cow  dung  instead  of  clean  poultices  will  cause  the  growth 
of  clusters  or  tumor,  like  growths  resembling  grapes,  which  arc- 
])ainful  to  the  patient  and  throw  out  an  offensive,  amber-colored 
Huid.  In  later  stages  grease  leg  often  turns  into  big  leg  or  Ele- 
jihantiases. 

TREATMENT 

Wash  the  parts  clean  with  soap  and  warm  water.  Rub  dry  and 
apply  Elk's  Derniasotc.  Rub  it  freely  into  the  wounds,  then  apply 
a  warm  linseed  poultice  over  the  entire  fetlock.  Repeat  this  twice 
daily  until  the  swellings  disa])pear.  Give  the  horse  a  tablespoon- 
ful  of  Bovolax  in  moist  food  three  times  daily  for  three  days.  Then 
discontinue  the  Bovolax  and  give  a  teaspoonful  of  National  Altera- 
tive Powders  instead  until  the  scratches  have  entirely  disappeared. 
This  treatment  is  very  effective  and  inexpensive. 


lU  HAL   VETERINARY  HEVRET^  113 


MANGE  ON  HORSES,  CATTLE  OR  DOGS 

This  consists  of  chronic  eruptions  of  the  skin,  causing"  the  hair 
to  fall  out  and  leaving  a  somewhat  raw  surface  of  the  skin  with  a 
discharge  of  sticky  substances  attended  by  an  offensive  odor.  The 
parts  afifected  are  exceedingly  itchy  and  sensitive. 


TREATMENT 

This  condition  is  caused  by  a  humor  in  the  blood  and  therefore 
such  treatment  must  first  be  given  as  acts  directly  on  the  circu- 
lation. For  this  purpose  give  one  tablespoonful  of  Sanguitone  in 
food  twice  or  three  times  daily  to  adult  horses  or  cattle,  giving 
smaller  animals  less,  according,  to  their  size  and  age.  Sanguitone 
is  prepared  especially  for  these  troubles  and  therefore  gives  most 
satisfactory  results.  The  surface  of  the  afifected  parts  should  be 
washed  clean  with  soap  and  warm  water.  When  dry,  rub  well 
with  Dcrmasote  once  daily  until  the  itching  ceases  and  the  hair  is 
restored. 


BOILS  OR  FURUNCLES 

These  may  appear  on  any  part  of  the  skin,  but  are  especially 
common  on  the  lower  parts  of  the  limbs,  and  on  the  shoulders 
and  back  where  the  skin  is  irritated  by  accumulated  secretion  and 
chafing  with  the  harness.  In  other  cases  the  cause  is  constitutional, 
or  attended  by  unwholesome  diet  and  overwork  with  loss  of  gen- 
eral health  and  condition.  They  also  follow  on  weakening  diseases, 
notably  strangles,  in  which  irritants  are  retained  in  the  system  from 
overproduction  of  poisons  and  efifete  matters  during  fever,  and  im- 
perfect elimination.  There  is  also  the  presence  of  a  pyogenic  bac- 
terium, by  which  the  disease  may  be  maintained  and  propagated. 

While  Boils  are  pus-producing,  they  dififer  from  simple  postule 
in  affecting  the  deepest  layers  of  the  true  skin,  and  even  the  super- 
ficial layers  of  the  connective  tissues  beneath,  and  in  the  death  and 
sloughing  out  of  the  central  part  of  the  infiammed  mass  (core). 
The  depth  of  the  hard,  indurated,  painful  swelling,  and  the  forma- 


114  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


tion  of  this  central  mass  or  core,  which  is  bathed  in  pus  and  slowly 
separated  from  surrounding  parts  serve  to  distinguish  the  boil  alike 
from  the  pustule,  from  the  farcy  bud,  and  form  a  superficial  abscess. 


TREATMENT 

To  treat  very  painful  boils  a  free  incision  ^^•itll  a  lancet  in  two 
directions,  followed  by  a  dressing  with  one-half  an  ounce  carbolic 
acid  in  a  pint  of  water,  bound  on  with  cotton  woo!  or  lint,  may  cut 
them  short.  The  more  common  course  is  to  apply  a  warm  poultice 
of  linseed  meal  or  wheat  bran,  and  renew  daily  until  the  center  of 
the  boil  softens,  when  it  should  be  lanced  and  the  core  pressed  out. 

If  the  boil  is  smeared  with  Elk's  Desicant  and  a  poultice  put 
over  it,  the  formation  of  matter  and  separation  of  the  core  is  often 
hastened.  A  mixture  of  sugar  and  soap  laid  on  the  boil  is  equally 
good.  Cleanliness  of  the  skin  and  the  avoidance  of  all  causes  of 
irritation  are  important  items,  and  ■  a  teaspoonful  of  Sanguitone 
Compound  once  or  twice  a  day  will  sometimes  assist  in  warding  ofif 
a  new  crop. 


CONGESTION  (With  small  Pimples  or  Papules) 

In  this  affection  there  is  the  general  blush,  heat,  etc.,  of 
erythema,  together  with  a  crop  of  elevations  from  the  size  of  a  poppy 
seed  to  a  coffee  bean,  visible  when  the  hair  is  reversed  or  to  be  felt 
with  the  finger  where  the  hair  is  scanty.  In  white  skins  they  vary 
from  the  palest  to  the  darkest  red.  All  do  not  retain  the  papular 
type,  but  some  go  on  to  form  blisters  (eczema,  bullae)  as  pustules, 
or  dry  up  into  scales,  or  break  out  into  open  sores,  or  extend  into 
larger  swelling  (tubercles).  The  majority,  however,  remaining  as 
pimples,  characterize  the  disease.  When  very  itchy  the  rubbing 
breaks  them  open,  ,'ind  the  resulting  sores  hide  the  true  nature  of 
the  eruptions. 

The  general  and  local  causes  may  be  the  same  as  for  erythema, 
and  in  the  same  subject  one  portion  of  the  skin  may  have  simple 
congestion  and  another  adjacent  papules.  As  the  inflammatory  ac- 
tion is  more  pronounced,  so  the  irritation  and  itching  arc  usually 
greater,  the  animal  rubbing  and  biting  himself  severely.  This  itch- 
ing is  especially  severe  in  the  forms  which  attack  the  roots  of  the 


RURAL  VETERINARY  ^ECRETi^  115 


mane  and  tail  and  there  the  disease  is  often  so  persistent  and  trouble- 
some that  the  horse  is  rendered  virtually  useless. 

The  bites  of  insects  often  produce  a  papular  eruption,  but  in 
many  cases  the  swelling  extends  wider  into  a  button-like  elevation, 
one-half  to  an  inch  in  diameter.  The  same  remarks  apply  to  the 
efifects  of  the  poison  ivy  and  poison  sumac. 


TREATMENT 

In  papular  eruptions  first  remove  the  cause,  then  apply  the  same 
general  remedies  as  for  simple  congestion.  In  the  more  inveterate 
cases  use  a  lotion  of  one-half  ounce  sulphide  of  Potassium  in  two 
quarts  of  water  to  Avhich  a  little  Castile  soap  has  been  added  ;  or 
wash  with  one-half  ounce  oil  of  tar,  2  ounces  Castile  soap  and  20 
ounces  water. 


INFLAMMATION  WITH  BLISTERS  (or  Eczema) 

In  this  the  skin  is  congested,  thickened,  warm  (white  skins  are 
reddened),  and  shows  a  thick  crop  of  little  blisters  formed  by  ef- 
fusions of  a  straw-colored  fluid  between  the  true  skin  and  the  cuticle. 
The  blisters  may  be  of  any  size  from  a  millet  seed  to  a  pea,  and 
often  crack  open  and  allow  the  escape  of  the  fluid,  which  concrete 
as  a  slightly  yellowish  scab  or  crust  around  the  roots  of  the  hairs. 
This  exudation  and  incrustation  are  especially  common  where  the 
hair  are  long,  thick,  and  numei-ous,  as  in  the  region  of  the  pastern 
of  heavy  draft  horses.  The  term  eczema  is  now  applied  very  gen- 
erally to  eruptions  of  all  kinds  that  depend  on  internal  disorders  or 
constitutional  conditions,  and  that  tend  to  recurrences  and  invet- 
eracy. Eczema  may  appear  on  any  part  of  the  body,  but  in  horses 
it  is  especially  common  on  the  heels  and  the  lower  parts  of  the  limbs, 
and  less  frequently  on  the  neck,  shoulder,  and  abdomen.  Their 
limbs  appear  to  be  especially  liable  because  of  their  dependent  po- 
sition, all  blood  having  to  return  from  them  against  the  action  of 
gravity,  and  congestions  and  swellings  being  common,  because  of 
the  abundance  of  blood  vessels  in  this  part  of  the  skin,  and  be- 
cause of  the  frequent  contact  with  the  irritant  dung  and  urine  and 
their  ammoniacal  emanations.  The  legs  further  sufifer  from  con- 
tact with  wet  and  mud  when  at  work,  from  snow  and  ice,  from 
drafts  of  cold  air  on  the  wet  limbs,  from  washing  with  caustic  soaps. 


116  RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS 


from  the  relaxing"  effects  of  a  too  deep  and  abundant  litter.  Among 
other  causes  may  be  named  indigestion  and  the  presence  of  irritant 
matters  in  the  blood  and  sweat,  the  result  of  patent  medicated  foods 
and  condition  powders  (aromatics,  stimulants),  green  food,  new 
oats,  buckwheat,  wheat,  maize,  diseased  potatoes,  smut,  or  ergot  in 
grains,  decomposing  green  food,  brewers'  grains,  or  kitchen  garbage. 
The  excitement  in  the  skin,  caused  b}  shedding  the  coat,  lack  of 
grooming,  hot  weather,  hot  boiled  or  steamed  food,  conduces  to  the 
eruption.     Lastly,  any  sudden  change  of  food  may  induce  it. 

The  blisters  may  in  part  go  on  to  suppuration  so  that  vesicles 
and  pustules  often  appear  on  the  same  patch,  and  when  raw  from 
rubbing  the  true  nature  of  the  eruption  may  be  completely  mashed. 
In  high-fed  horses,  kept  in  close  stables  with  little  work,  eczema 
of  the  limbs  may  last  for  months  and  years.  It  is  a  very  trouble- 
some affection  in  draft  stallions. 


TREATMENT 

This  disease  is  so  often  the  result  of  indigestion  that  a  laxative 
of  one-half  pound  Bovolax  dissolved  in  a  quart  of  warm  water  and 
given  in  two  doses  four  hours  apart  is  often  demanded  to  clear  away 
the  irritants  from  the  alimentary  canal.  A  quart  of  raw  linseed  oil 
may  be  necessary  in  addition  to  the  above  in  obstinate  cases.  In 
debilitated  cases  one  to  two  teaspoonfuls  of  Sanguitone  given  in 
food  twice  or  three  times  daily  will  help  tone  the  system.  Cleanli- 
ness and  good  hygiene  of  the  skin  dviring  the  treatment  and  for 
some  time  after  is  absolutely  necessary. 


SUMMER  SORES  IN  HORSES 

Summer  Sores  are  said  to  be  parasitic  in  their  nature.  In 
India  they  are  termed  Ihirsattce.  The  disease  is  shown  by  sores  on 
the  skin,  at  the  fetlock,  sheath,  face,  lips  and  front  of  the  chest;  at 
the  beginning  the  sores  are  red  and  unhealthy  looking,  sometimes 
nearly  a  foot  in  diameter,  are  often  kept  moist  by  the  discharge. 
In  the  sores  are  often  found  little  pea-shaped  hard,  yellowish  bodies. 
The  sores  heal  of  their  own  accord  in  cold  weather.  In  accordance 
with  the  idea  of  parasitic  origin,  strong  antiseptics  should  be  used, 
carbolic  acid  full  strength,  one  application  only,  later  paint  on  cam- 
phor one  part  to  carbolic  acid  two  and  one-half  ])arts.    The  apjilica- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  117 

tion  of  one  of  the  following  after  the  sore  begins  to  look  healthy  will 
be  all  that  is  needed,  in  addition  to  preventing  any  irritation. 

Carbolic  Acid 1   ounce 

Resin 1   ounce 

Camphor 5  ounces 

Methylated  Spirits 15  ounces 

lodofoam 1   dram 

Oil  of  Eucalyptus 1   ounce 

Keep  the  sore  covered  with  the  drugs  until  healed. 


CHAPPED  TEATS 

These  may  be  caused  by  anything  which  irritates  the  teats. 
The  powerful  sucking  of  the  calf;  the  sudden  chilling  of  the  teat  in 
winter  after  the  calf  has  just  let  it  go,  or  after  the  completion  of 
milking  with  a  wet  hand;  contact  with  cold  water,  or  stagnant, 
putrid  water,  or  with  filth  or  irritants  when  lying  down;  slight 
congestions  of  the  skin  in  connection  with  overstocking;  indeed, 
any  source  of  local  irritation  may  cause  chapping.  This  may  be 
slight  or  extend  into  great,  gaping  sores  and  induce  retention  of  milk 
or  even  mammitis. 


TREATMENT 

Wash  the  teats  and  all  chapped  parts  clean  with  soap  and 
water  after  each  milking.  Dry  with  a  towel ;  then  apply  Elk's 
Glycerole  rubbing  it  in  well.  This  will  make  the  teats  pliable,  re- 
lieve the  soreness,  and  bring  about  speedy  healing  of  the  chapped 
and  sore  parts. 


118 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRET ^ 


WARTS   (Papillomata) 


Papilloniata  (warts). 


Warts  arc  more  or  less  common  on  all  classes  of  stock.  If  flat 
on  the  skin  may  be  touched  with  strong  acetic  acid  or  silver  nitrate 
(lunar  caustic).  If  they  have  a  long  neck,  a  horse  hair  or  fine 
twine  may  be  tied  around  the  base  when  they  will  eventually  drop 
off.  Larger  warts,  like  those  shown  in  the  above  illustration  may 
easily  be  twisted  off  with  your  thumb  and  fingers,  or  an  ordinary 
pair  of  pincers  will  do.  Keep  the  skin  clean  and  touch  up  with 
caustics  as  above  mentioned. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

Contagious  and  Infectious  Diseases 

TUBERCULOSIS 

THE  DIAGNOSIS  OF  TUBERCULOSIS 


The  symptoms  of  tuberculosis  in  cattle  are  not  sufficiently 
prominent,  except  in  advanced  stages  or  when  superficially  lo- 
cated, to  enable  one  to  diagnose  this  disease  by  the  ordinary  meth- 
ods of  physical  examination,  and  the  cattle  may,  without  showing 
any  clinical  symptoms,  be  in  such  a  stage  of  tuberculosis  as  to  ren- 
der them  capable  of  spreading  disease.  Indeed,  an  animal  may  be 
fat  and  sleek,  eat  and  milk  well,  have  a  bright,'  glossy  coat  and  be 
apparently  in  the  pink  of  condition,  and  still  be  passing  tubercle 
baccili  through  the  feces  or  by  an  occasional  cough,  and  thus  en- 
danger all  the  healthy  cattle  in  the  herd.  Consequently,  advan- 
tageous aids  to  diagnosis  as  animal  inoculation,  biological  tests, 
serum  agglutination  reaction,  and  the  tuberculin  test  are  made  use 
of  in  arriving  at  a  definite  opinion  relative  to  the  presence  or  ab- 
sence of  this  disease.  The  value  of  all  but  the  last  of  these  is  dis- 
counted by  the  technique  required  and  by  their  impracticability, 
while  the  tuberculin  test  is  most  satisfactory  and  is  the  best  diag- 
nostic agent  known  for  the  disease. 


THE  ORIGIN  OF  THE  TUBERCULIN  TEST 

Tuberculin  was  invented  b}'  Kck^Ii  in  1890  and  was  first  used 
experimentally  in  treating  tuberculosis  in  man.  In  these  cases  it 
was  observed  that  its  injection  was  followed  by  a  rise  of  tempera- 
ture, which  led  veterinarians  to  apply  tuberculin  to  suspected  ani- 
mals to  see  if  a  similar  reaction  resulted.  Numerous  experiments 
showed  this  to  be  the  case,  and  since  1891  the  use  of  tuberculin  as 
a  diagnostic  agent  for  tuberculosis  of  cattle  has  been  almost  uni- 
versally adopted  in  all  parts  of  the  civilized  world.  No  one  thinks 
of  accepting  tuberculin  as  an  absolutely  infallible  agent,  but  it  is 
immeasurably  more  dependable  than  any  other  method  that  has 
ever  been  used. 


120 


RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS 


THE  NATURE  AND  APPLICATION  OF  TUBERCULIN  TEST 

Tuberculin  is  tlic  sterilized  and  filtered  glycerin  extract  of  cul- 
tures of  tubercle  bacilli.  It  contains  cooked  products  of  the  growth 
of  these  bacilli,  but  not  the  bacilli  themselves.  Consequently,  when 
this  substance  is  injected  under  the  skin  of  any  animal  it  is  abso- 
lutel}^  unable  to  produce  the  disease,  cause  abortion,  or  otherwise 
injure  the  animal.  In  case  the  injected  animal  is  tuberculous,  a  de- 
cided rise  of  temperature  will  follow  the  use  of  tuberculin. 

In  practice  the  tuberculin  test  is  applied  by  first  taking  a  suf- 
ficient number  of  temperatures,  usually  three,  at  intervals  of  two 
hours,  to  ascertain  the  normal  variation  of  temperature  of  the  ani- 
mal to  be  tested.  The  dose  of  tuberculin  (which  should  always  be 
specified  on  the  label)  is  then  injected  hypodermically  between  8 
and  10  p.  m.  on  the  day  of  taking  the  preliminary  temperatures.  On 
the  following  day  the  "after"  temperatures  are  recorded  every  two 
hours,  beginning  at  6  a.  m.  and  continuing  until  twenty  hours  fol- 
lowing the  injection. 


Typical  tubercular  heifer. 
Photo  by  author. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


121 


Lungs  showing  lesions  of  generalized  tuberculosi 
Photo  by  Author. 


-ame  heife)-. 


THE  VALUE  AND  RELL4BILITY  OF  THE  TUBERCULIN  TEST 


As  a  result  of  this  method  an  accurate  diagnosis  may  be  estab- 
lished in  over  97  per  cent  of  the  cases  tested.  The  relatively  few 
failures  in  diag"nosis  are  included  among  two  classes  of  cattle.  The 
first  class  contains  those  that  are  tuberculous,  but  which  do  not 
react,  either  because  of  the  slight  effect  of  an  ordinary  sized  dose 
of  tuberculin,  or  an  advanced  case  of  the  disease  with  so  much  natu- 
ral tuberculin  already  in  the  system ;  or  on  account  of  a  previous 
test  with  tuberculin  which  produces  a  tolerance  to  this  material 
lasting  for  about  six  weeks.     The  second  class  includes  those  that 


122  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


are  not  tuberculous,  but  which  show  an  elevation  of  temperature  as 
a  result  of  (1)  advanced  pregnancy;  (2)  the  excitement  of  oestrum; 
(3j  concurrent  diseases,  as  inflammation  of  the  lungs,  intestines, 
uterus,  udder,  or  other  parts,  abortion,  retention  of  afterbirth,  in- 
digestion, etc ;  (4)  inclosure  in  a  hot,  stuffy  stable,  especially  in 
summer,  or  exposure  to  cold  drafts  or  rains;  or  (5)  any  change  in 
the  method  of  feeding,  watering,  or  stabling  of  the  animal  during 
the  test. 

Notwithstandnig  all  these  possibilities  of  error,  the  results  of 
thousands  of  tests  show  that  in  less  than  3  per  cent  of  the  cases 
tested  do  these  failures  actually  occur.  In  the  first  class,  the  chances 
of  error  are  decidedly  reduced  by  the  skilled  veterinarian  by  making 
careful  physical  examination  and  diagnosing  these  advanced  cases, 
and  by  the  injection  of  double  or  triple  doses  into  all  recently  tested 
cattle,  with  the  taking  of  the  "after"  temperatures  beginning  two 
hours  following  the  injection  and  continuing  hourly  for  twenty 
hours.  The  second  class :  Errors  are  avoided  by  eliminating  those 
cases  from  the  test  that  are  nearing  parturition  or  are  in  heat,  or 
show  evidence  of  the  previously  mentioned  diseases,  or  exhibit  tem- 
peratures sufficiently  high  to  make  them  unreliable  for  use  as  nor- 
mal. Then,  in  reading  "after"  temperatures  it  is  advisable  not  to 
recognize  as  a  reaction  an  elevation  of  temperatures  less  than  2°  F., 
or  one  which  at  the  same  time  does  not  go  above  103.8°  F.,  and  the 
temperatures  reaction  must  likewise  have  the  characteristic  rainbow 
curve.  (Those  cases  which  approximate,  but  do  not  reach  this 
standard  should  be  considered  as  suspicious  and  held  for  a  retest 
six  weeks  later.)  In  addition,  a  satisfactory  tuberculin  must  be 
used,  also  an  accurate  thermometer  and  a  reliable  syringe  in  order 
that  a  sufficient  dose  of  tuberculin  may  be  given.  Finally,  the  num- 
ber of  apparent  errors  or  the  tuberculm  test  will  be  greatly  dimin- 
ished if  a  careful  post  mortem  examination  is  made,  giving  especial 
attention  to  the  lymph  glands. 

This  low  percentage  of  failures  being  the  case,  cattle  owners 
should  welcome  the  tuberculin  test,  not  only  for  their  own  interest, 
but  for  the  welfare  of  the  public  as 'well.  Where  this  method  of 
diagnosing  the  disease  has  been  adopted,  tuberculosis  is  gradually 
being  eradicated,  while  it  is  spreading  rapidly  and  becoming  widely 
disseminated  in  those  districts  where  the  tuberculin  test  has  not 
been  employed.  Without  its  use  the  disease  cannot  be  controlled 
and  the  cattle  owner  is  confronted  with  serious  and  continuous 
losses;  with  its  use  the  disease  can  be  eradicated  from  the  herd;  a 
clean  herd  established  and  the  danger  of  its  spread  to  man  removed. 
Tuberculin  may,  therefore,  be  considered  a  most  beneficial  discov- 
ery for  the  stock  raiser.     Strange  to  say,  many  of  these  men  have 


RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS  123 


been  incredvilous,  antagonistic,  or  prejudiced  against  the  tuberculin 
test  by  misinterpreting  published  statements,  by  incorrect  unsub- 
stantiated, or  exaggerated  reports,  and  by  alleged  injurious  effects 
to  healthy  cattle. 

Law  has  clearly  stated  the  question  when  he  says ; 

"Many  stock  owners  still  entertain  an  ignorant  and  unwar- 
ranted dread  of  the  tuberculin  test.  It  is  true  that  when  recklessly 
used  by  ignorant  and  careless  people  it  may  be  made  a  root  of  evil, 
yet  as  employed  by  the  intelligent  and  careful  expert  it  is  not  only 
perfectly  safe,  but  it  is  the  only  known  means  of  ascertaining  ap- 
proximately the  actual  number  of  affected  in  a  given  herd.  In  most 
infected  herds,  living  under  what  are  in  other  respects  good  hy- 
gienic conditions,  two-thirds  or  three-fourths  are  not  to  be  detected 
without  its  aid,  so  that  in  clearing  a  herd  from  tuberculosis,  and 
placing  both  herd  and  products  above  suspicion,  the  test  becomes 
essential. 

"In  skilled  hands  the  tuberculin  test  will  show  at  least  nine- 
tenths  of  all  cases  of  tuberculosis  when  other  methods  of  diagnosis 
will  not  detect  one-tenth." 

It  is  perfectly  natural  that  there  should  be  objection  to  its 
use  among  those  who  are  not  acquainted  with  its  method  of  prepa- 
ration or  its  properties,  but  it  is  difficult  to  explain  the  antagonism 
of  farmers  who  are  familiar  with  the  facts  connected  with  the  manu- 
facture and  use  of  tuberculin.  Probably  the  most  popular  objec- 
tion to  tuberculin  is  that  it  is  too  searching,  since  it  discovers  cases 
in  which  the  lesions  are  small  and  obscure.  While  this  fact  is  ad- 
mitted, it  should  also  be  borne  in  mind  that  such  a  small  lesion  to- 
day may  break  down  and  become  widely  disseminated  in  a  rela- 
tively short  period.  Therefore,  any  cow  affected  with  tuberculosis, 
even  to  a  slight  degree,  must  be  considered  as  probably  dangerous, 
not  only  to  the  other  animals  in  the  herd,  but  also  to  the  consumer 
of  her  products.  In  connection  with  the  above  test,  tuberculin  is 
now  applied  to  the  eye  and  injected  interdermally  to  aid  in  diagnos- 
ing tubercular  subjects. 


124  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


A  mad  cow. — Photo  by  author 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  125 


RABIES  IN  DOGS  AND  CATTLE 

Before  taking  up  in  detail  the  study  of  the  phenomena  of  Rabies 
it  is  well  to  review  briefly  the  salient  features  which  combine  to 
distinguish  it. 

Rabies  is  an  ancient  and  widespread  dis<_)rder  perpetuated 
among  the  lower  animals,  chiefly  the  dog  family,  transmitted  in 
nature  to  other  animals  and  to  man  by  the  inoculation  of  virulent 
saliva  through  bites.  It  is  undoubtedly  caused  b\-  a  living  micro- 
organism, which  invades  the  nervous  system,  rendering  it  virulent 
and  inducing  the  symptoms.  The  period  of  inoculation  is  variable, 
but  relatively  long,  usually  between  21  days  and  two  months.  The 
symptoms  are  referable  to  excitation  and  finally  depression  of  the 
central  nervous  system  by  the  micro-organism  or  its  products,  with 
ultimate  destruction  of  its  functioning  power.  A  general  increase 
of  reflex  excitation  is  early  noted.  The  centers  for  respiration  and 
deglutition  are  especially  severely  attacked,  with  spasms  or  paraly- 
sis as  a  result.  General  convulsions  of  central  origin  frequently 
occur,  paralysis  of  spinal  origin  may  attack  the  extremities.  The 
physical  functions  are  disturbed  in  degrees  varying  in  their  mani- 
festations from  morbid  anxiety  to  delirium  and  mania.  Pathological 
changes  of  a  characteristic  nature  are  confined  principally  to  the 
nervous  system.  The  disease  is  essentially  the  same  in  all  of  the 
many  species  of  animals  that  are  susceptible.  Protection  is  af- 
forded by  inoculation  with  attenuated  rabies  virus  and  to  some  ex- 
tent by  antirabic  serum  and  so  far  as  known,  by  no  other  means. 
The  blood  serum  of  immunized  persons  and  animals  possess  specific 
properties  against  rabies  virus.  Once  developed,  the  disease  is  al- 
most uniformly  fatal.  No  other  diseases  presents  these  characters 
in  combination. 


TREATMENT 

As  a  result  of  recent  experiments,  scientists  claim  that  when 
an  animal  or  man^has  been  bitten  by  a  rabied  dog  or  other  affected 
animal,  the  immediate  application  of  Tincture  of  Iodine  inserted 
deeply  into  the  wound  will  prevent  the  germs  from  growing,  thus 
preventing  infection  and  the  consequent  development  of  the  disease. 
Some  authorities  go  so  far  as  to  claim  this  to  be  a  specific  preventative. 


126  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


Last  stage  of  Tetanus  in  a  liorse. — Plioto  by  author. 


RURAL   VETERINARY  HECRETS  127 


LOCKJAW  (Tetanus) 

Lockjaw  or  tetanus  is  an  infection  due  to  a  specific  germ, 
(Baccilus  Tetanus),  which  gains  access  to  the  circulation  through 
wounds  of  some  kind,  most  frequently  through  a  nail-prick  or  other 
small  wounds  caused  by  a  small  sharp  instrument,  which  does  not 
make  a  large  wound  and  closes  after  the  instrument  is  withdra\vn. 
Thus  the  germs  arc  inclosed  and  usually  develop  in  such  large  num- 
bers that  they  bring  about  the  rigid  tetanic  condition  of  the  body 
shown  above,  in  about  twenty-one  days.  Some  cases  developing 
after  the  twenty-first  day  are  usually  much  milder  than  those  which 
develop  before.    Some  cases  develop  sooner  and  some  later. 

TREATMENT 

When  a  horse  steps  on  a  nail,  the  wound  should  be  opened 
freely  after  the  nail  has  been  extracted,  in  order  t-o  give  access  of 
air  and  free  drainage.  Tetanus  germs  cannot  propagate  unless  air 
and  sunlight  are  excluded.  N'accinate  the  animal  with  Tetanus 
Vaccine  (from  500  to  1,000  units)  and  thoroughly  disinfect  the 
wound  with  a  solution  of  Lotio  Vita.  Many  a  valuable  animal 
which  has  been  doomed  to  death  has  been  saved  in  this  way.  In 
every  case  the  patient  should  be  kept  quiet  in  a  dark,  comfortable 
stall. 

LUMP  JAW  (Actenomicosis) 

Lump  Jaw  is  due  to  a  specific  germ  which  gains  access  to  the 
animal  body  through  the  food.  It  is  communicable  from  one  animal 
to  another  when  the  lumps,  which  form  in  the  region  of  the  lower 
jaw,  break  open  and  discharge  pus  containing  the  live  germs.  If 
this  happens  while  the  animal  is  in  the  pasture  grazing  and  the 
pus  trickles  on  the  ground  during  the  natural  movements  of  the 
jaw,  other  cattle  following  will  eat  the  grass  containing  the  pus  and 
thus  introduce  the  germ,  which  finds  its  way  to  the  glands  in  the 
submaxillary  space  where  the  pus  sack  or  lump  is  formed  after  which 
the  disease  is  commonly  named. 

TREATMENT 

The  treatment  consists  in  opening  the  pus  sacks  and  squeezing 
out  the  pus,  after  which  the  sack  should  be  washed  clean  and  Elk's 
Absorbing  Ointment  rubbed  in  freely  to  absorb  the  sack  and  kill 
germs  which  might  remain.  Repeat  in  three  or  four  days.  This  is 
a  satisfactory  treatment  in  all  early  cases,  but  if  the  lump  has  be- 
come chronic,  viz. :  If  it  has  broken  open  on  its  own  accord  and 
closed  several  times,  the  above  treatment  must  be  repeated  until 
the  entire  bunch  disappears. 


128 


RURAL  YETERINARY  ^ECRETti 


COW  POX 

This  is  a  form  of  contagious  inflammation  of  the  udder  which 
does  not  spread  readily  from  animal  to  animal,  except  by  the  hands 
of  the  milker.  It  is  said  to  occur  spontaneously  in  the  cow,  but 
this  is  altogether  improbable.  It  is  not  uncommon  in  the  horse, 
attacking  the  heels,  the  lips,  or  some  other  inoculated  part  of  the 
body  and  is  then  easily  transferred  to  the  cow  if  the  same  man 
grooms  and  dresses  the  horse  and  milks  the  cow.  It  may  also  ap- 
pear in  the  cow  by  infection,  more  or  less  direct  from  a  person  who 
has  been  successfully  vaccinated.     IVlany  believe  that   it  is  only  a 


A  typical  case  of  cow-pox. — Photo  by  author. 

form  of  the  smallpox  of  man,  modified  by  passing  through  the  sys- 
tem of  the  cow. 


SYMPTOIVIS 

The  disease  in  the  cow  is  ushered  in  by  a  sliglu  fever,  which, 
however,  is  usually  overlooked  and  the  first  sign  is  tenderness  of 
the  teats.  Examined,  these  may  be  redder  and  hotter  than  nor- 
mal and  at  the  end  of  two  days  there  appear  little  nodules  like  small 
peas,  of  a  pale  red  color  and  increasing  so  that  they  may  measure 
three-fourths  of  an  inch  to  one  inch  in  diameter  by  the  seventh  day. 
The  yield  of  milk  diminishes  and  when  heated  it  coagulates  slightly. 
From  the  seventh  to  the  tenth  day  the  eruption  forms  into  a  blister 
with  a  depression  in  the  center  and  raised  margins,  from  which  the 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  129 


whole  of  the  liquid  cannot  be  dra-vvn  out  by  a  single  puncture.  The 
blister,  in  other  words,  is  chambered  and  each  chamber  must  be 
opened  in  order  to  evacuate  the  whole  of  the  contents.  If  the  pock 
forms  on  the  surface  where  there  is  thick  hair,  it  does  not  rise  as  a 
blister,  but  oozes  out  a  straw-colored  fluid  which  concretes  on  the 
liair  in  an  amber-colored  mass.  In  one  or  two  days  after  the  pock 
is  full  it  becomes  yellow  from  contained  pus  and  then  dries  into  a 
brownish,  yellow  scab  (See  Illustration),  which  finally  falls,  leaving 
one  or  more  distinct  pits  in  the  skin.  Upon  the  teats,  however,  this 
regular  course  is  rarely  seen ;  the  vesicles  are  burst  by  the  hands 
of  the  milker  as  soon  as  liquid  is  formed  and  as  they  continue  to 
suffer  at  each  milking,  they  form  raw,  angry  sores,  scabbing  more 
or  less  at  intervals,  but  slow  to  undergo  healing. 

TREATMENT 

The  only  treatment  is  to  heal  the  sores  and  to  relieve  the  cow 
of  the  painful  torture  of  milking.  To  do  this  effectively  wash  the 
udder  and  teats  clean  with  warm  water  and  castile  soap  after  each  milk- 
ing. See  that  no  soap-suds  remain  on  udder  or  teats,  then  dry 
thoroughly  with  a  clean,  dry  towel.  When  the  parts  are  thus 
cleansed  and  dried,  rub  well  with  Glycerole  (National)  all  affected 
parts.  This  will  tend  to  relieve  the  pain  at  once,  soften  the  skin. 
and  hasten  repair.  It  will  surprise  you  how  much  more  gentle  the 
cow  will  appear  at  the  next  milking,  even  after  only  one  applica- 
tion. Repeat  the  above  until  the  pox  disappear  and  always  milk 
the  affected  cows  last  so  that  you  do  not  carry  the  germs  to  the 
healthy  ones  of  the  herd,  care  being  taken  to  have  the  hands  of  the 
milker  thoroughly  clean. 


130 


RURAL  VETERiyARY  ^ECRETii 


Blood   poison    following   a    nrgKclfd   casi'   of   slrangk-s. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  131 

STRANGLES  (Horse  Distemper) 

(See  Fig.  14,  opposite  page.) 

Horse  distemper  or  strangles  is  due  to  a  specific  germ  which 
gains  access  to  the  blood  by  the  horse  coming  in  contact  with  other 
infected  horses,  drinking  out  of  the  same  vessels  or  rubbing  its  nose 
on  a  post  or  manger  where  the  discharge  of  an  infected  horse  has 
been  deposited.  This  disease  is  the  fore-runner  of  many  more 
serious  diseases  than  strangles  itself.  The  germ  particularly  at- 
tacks the  red  corpuscles  of  the  blood,  which  causes  a  general  weak- 
ness of  the  system  to  such  an  extent  that  it  cannot  resist  other  dis- 
eases. 

TREATMENT 

(See  Fig.  15,  opposite  page.) 

Distemper  can  be  prevented  by  vaccination.  Just  as  soon  as 
one  of  your  horses  show  signs  of  distemper,  all  the  rest  should  be 
immediately  vaccinated  and  all  the  animals  given  a  teaspoonful  of 
Sanguitone  twice  or  three  times  daily.  This  gives  the  well  animals 
resisting  power  and  hasten  the  recovery  of  the  sick.  When  a  swell- 
ing appears  in  the  throat  a  liberal  application  of  Elk's  Dessicant 
should  be  well  rubbed  into  the  skin  of  the  affected  parts  once  daily 
until  the  swelling  breaks  open  and  discharges.  Then  the  wound 
should  be  kept  clean  with  soap  and  warm  water.  A  warm  linseed 
poultice  may  then  be  applied  twice  daily  to  hasten  suppuration  and 
terminate  the  disease.  To  apply  poultice,  a  bandage  as  shown  be- 
low will  greatly  aid  in  keei)ing  the  poultice  in  place. 

INFLUENZA 

Influenza  is  a  very  wide  term  applied  to  epizootics  of  the  horse. 
Pink  Eye  is  one  form  of  the  disease.  Stockyard  Fever,  so-called 
■  is  another  form.  This  disease  is  more  or  less  serious,  depending  to 
a  great  extent  on  the  health  of  the  animal  and  the  healthiness  of 
its  surroundings.  It  may  be  set  down  as  a  general  rule  that  a  horse 
off  feed  should  not  be  worked,  and  if  the  clinical  thermometer 
shows  a  fevered  condition  in  the  animal  the  veterinarian  should  be 
consulted.  Partial  or  complete  loss  of  appetite,  fever,  great  nervous 
depression,  partial  loss  of  control  of  the  limbs,  constipation,  slimy 
feces,  discharges  from  the  eyes,  cough,  sore  throat,  swelling  of  the 
limbs,  sheath  and  along  the  belly,  and  occasionally  a  nasal  discharge 
are  all  common  symptoms  of  influenza ;  a  serious  result  in  pregnant 
mares  is  abortion,  few  carry  their  foals  the  full  time.    The  duration 


132  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


of  the  disease  is  usually  six  to  ten  days  if  uncomplicated  ;  a  constant 
watch  must  be  kept  for  lung  or  blood  complications.  Give  good 
food,  pure  air,  sunlight,  etc.,  avoid  drafts. 

TREATMENT 

To  prevent  this  trouble  the  entire  herd  or  inmates  of  a  stable 
should  be  vaccinated  after  the  disease  has  broken  out  in  the  stable 
or  neighborhood.  If  an  animal  is  once  afifected.  we  can  give  the 
system  resistance  and  guard  against  evil  results  by  giving  in  moist 
food  three  times  daily  one  teaspoonful  of  Sanguitone  Compound 
until  the  patient  has  safely  recovered.  Alcoholic  stimulants  may  be 
added  to  hasten,  or  bring  about  a  speedy  recovery. 


CONTAGIOUS  EYE  DISEASE  IN  CATTLE 

This  disease,  technically  termed  contagious  keratitis,  some- 
times termed  Pink  Eye  of  cattle,  is  in  some  localities  and  at  some 
seasons  quite  a  common  disease ;  usually  it  appears  in  the  summer 
or  fall.  One  or  both  eyes  may  be  affected ;  the  eyelids  are  swollen 
and  closed  and  seem  unable  to  bear  the  clear  light ;  there  is  a  milky 
appearance  of  the  front  part  of  the  eye,  the  corner,  thus  giving  rise 
to  the  common  idea  that  a  scum  is  over  it ;  the  darkest  spot  is  often 
a  yellow  color,  in  the  center.  In  some  cases  a  purulent  (mattery) 
discharge  is  present ;  sometimes  the  contents  of  the  eye  escape  and 
vision  is  thereby  destroyed.  The  affected  animal  stops  eating,  cows 
will  fail  in  their  milk. 

TREATMENT 

Fortunately,  the  majority  of  cases  recover  completely  under 
proper  treatment,  which  is  quite  simple  but  eft"ective.  It  is  as  fol- 
lows :  Separate  all  the  affected  cattle  from  the  healthy  ones,  and 
give  those  aft"ected  the  usual  dose  of  Bovolax,  place  in  a  darkened 
stall  and  keep  a  clean  cloth  dampened  with  a  solution  of  boracic 
acid,  one  ounce  to  a  quart  of  clean  water,  containing  a  couple  of 
ounces  of  laudanum  or  belladonna,  over  the  eye,  or  else  apply  the 
solution  mentioned  once  or  twice  daily.  As  many  very  bad  cases 
recover,  treatment  should  be  persisted  in.  If  the  eye  does  not  seem 
to  clear,  or  an  abscess  forms,  apply  the  following  solution  with  a 
piece  of  clean  cheese-cloth  once  daily.  Mercury  Ointment  (Blue 
Ointment)  to  the  e}e  twice  a  week  for  two  weeks. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  133 


PERIODIC  OPTHALMIA 

This  disease  is  due  to  a  parasite  which  gains  access  to  the  eye 
and  atfects  the  optic  nerve  and  brings  about  symptoms  of  inflamma- 
tion about  once  a  month.  The  origin  of  the  germ  and  the  manner 
in  which  it  obtains  access  to  this  organ  is  still  unknowai  to  scien- 
tists, but  we  do  know,  if  taken  in  time,  we  very  frequently  succeed 
in  destroying  the  troublesome  agent  of  disease  by  keeping  the  horse 
in  a  dark  place,  bathing  the  eye  with  warm  camomile  tea  and  boric 
acid  ;  taking  about  twenty  grains  of  boric  acid  to  a  common  tea- 
cupful  of  the  tea  and  applying  the  same  over  the  eye  live  or  six  time^ 
daily  with  a  bandage,  which  is  kept  saturated  with  the  solution. 
This  will  reduce  the  swelling  and  take  out  the  greater  part  of  the 
inflammation.  Then  you  may  take  Mercury  Ointment  (Blue  Oint- 
ment) one  part,  lanolin  twx:)  parts,  mix  and  rub  into  the  eye  and 
around  the  orbit  once  daily  for  three  or  four  days,  then  rest  and 
watch  results.  During  the  time  you  are  making  the  external  ap- 
plication, the  animal  should  have  one  dram  of  Iodide  of  Potash  in 
its  drinking  water  twice  daily,  at  least  one  hour  before  meals. 
Never  give  this  medicine  with  the  food,  as  you  will  get  no  results. 
Continue  this  for  five  or  six  days,  then  stop.  This  treatment  is  the 
most  successful  of  any  that  is  known  to  the  writef  for  Periodic 
Opthalmia,  although  the  history  of  the  disease  would  lead  one  to 
believe  that  medical  treatment  has  not  been  very  successful  in  the 
past. 


FOOT-AND-MOUTH  DISEASE 

(Aphthous  Fever) 

Foot-and-mouth  disease  is  highly  infectious,  acute,  febrile  dis- 
ease of  cloven-footed  animals,  particularly  cattle.  Horses,  dogs, 
cats,  poultry,  and  even  man  may  become  infected.  It  is  character- 
ized by  the  formation  of  vesicles  or  blisters  on  the  membrane  of  the 
mouth  and  on  the  skin  between  the  toes  and  above  the  hoofs.  The 
disease  does  not  exist  in  the  United  States.  Since  it  has  broken 
out  on  several  occasions,  however,  through  infection  from  abroad, 
it  is  a  disease  with  which  every  livestock  owner  should  be  fimiliar. 

CAUSE 

The  cause  of  the  disease  is  too  small  to  be  seen  with  a  microscope 
and  is  known  as  a  Alterable  virus.  Transmission  occurs  by  direct  con- 
tact witli  infected  animals  or  by  any  agency,  such  as  man,  other  animals, 


134  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


feed,  animal  products,  etc..  contaminated  with  discharges  from  affected 
animals. 

SYMPTOMS 

In  sheep  the  lesions  are  more  pronounced  in  the  feet,  the  blisters 
being  less  well  marked  in  the  mouth  than  is  the  case  in  cattle.  All  four 
feet  generally  are  the  seat  of  small  blisters,  which  form  on  the  skin 
between  the  toes,  on  the  heel,  or  around  the  top  of  the  hoof.  The 
animal  is  restless  and  kicks  with  the  hind  feet.  Pain  becomes  intense, 
severe  lameness  is  shown,  and  the  animal  rests  on  the  knees  or  breast- 
bone in  feeding  or  lies  down  most  of  the  time.  The  blisters  rupture, 
discharging  a  clear  or  yellowish  fluid,  which  later  may  become  cloudy 
or  purulent.     Frequently  the  hoof  separates  from  the  wall. 

In  the  mouth  small  blisters  form  on  the  incisor  pad,  lips,  tongue, 
cheeks,  or  hard  palate.  These  rupture,  discharging  a  clear  fluid  and 
leave  small,  reddened  surfaces  which  heal  rapidly.  A  considerable  part 
of  the  membrane  of  the  mouth  may  be  cast  oft'.  The  animal  often 
makes  a  smacking  sound  or  grinds  the  teeth. 

Blisters  may  appear  on  the  udder  or  teats.  There  is  a  general  c(jn- 
stitutional  disturbance,  diminished  appetite,  and  loss  of  condition. 
The  temperature  rises  at  first  and  then  drops  to  normal. 

The  disease  runs  its  course  in  from  tw^o  to  three  weeks,  but  is 
prelonged  by  severe  foot  lesions  or  by  complications.  The  mortality 
is  higher  among  lambs  than  among  grown  sheep. 

DIAGNOSIS 

Foot-and-mouth  disease  is  readily  recognized  by  the  rapid  spread 
of  the  disease  in  a  flock,  or  to  cattle  and  hogs,  by  the  characteristic 
blisters  on  the  feet  or  in  the  mouth  and  by  the  severe  lameness  in  more 
than  one  foot.  In  foot  rot  of  sheep,  lameness  is  present  in  the  aft"ected 
foot ;  but  in  that  case  the  lesions  are  in  the  form  of  ulcers,  which 
usually  develop  at  the  heel  and  may  extend  deeply  into  the  tissues, 
causing  erosions  which  discharge  a  purulent  matter.  A  pvmgent,  dis- 
agreeable odor  also  is  ([uite  characteristic  of  foot  rot. 


TREATMENT 

Medical  treatment  is  not  i)racticed  in  this  country,  as  the  danger 
that  the  disease  will  spread  from  an  infected  flock  is  too  great.  On 
each  occasion  when  an  outbreak  has  occurred  slaughter  of  the  aft'ected 
herds  as  early  as  possible  has  prevented  the  disease  from  gaining  a 
])ermanent   foothold  in   the  country.     During  outbreaks  of   foot-and- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  135 


mouth  disease  suspicious  cases  should  be  immediately  reported  by  tele- 
graph to  the  State  livestock  authorities  or  to  the  United  States  Bureau 
of  Animal  Industry. 


SHEEP  POX  (Variola  Ovina) 

Sheep  pox  is  an  acute,  infectious,  eruptive  disease  of  the  skin, 
which  spreads  rapidly  through  a  flock.  It  is  prevalent  in  Europe,  but 
is  not  known  to  exist  in  America. 


CAUSE 

Sheep  pox  is  caused  b}'  a  living,  filterable  virus,  and  is  contracted 
principally  by  inhaling  dust  and  air  containing  pox-scab  material. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  disease  begins  with  high  fever  and  general  constitutional  dis- 
turbance. Round,  red  spots  appear  on  the  parts  of  the  skin  which  are 
free  from  or  only  lightly  covered  with  wool.  Papules  soon  develop  on 
these  spots  and  are  succeeded  by  vesicles  containing  a  yellowish  or 
pale-red  fluid.  The  vesicles  later  become  pustules  and  then  dry  up, 
form  a  scab  which  is  cast  ofl:'.  The  animal  gives  off  a  peculiar  sweetish 
repulsive  odor.  The  disease  lasts  about  three  or  four  weeks,  and  the 
mortality,  except  in  severe  outbreaks,  runs  from  5  to  10  per  cent. 


TREATMENT 

European  authorities  advise  slaughter  of  the  first  animals  affected. 
Preventive  vaccination  is  successful,  but  is  carried  on  under  Govern- 
ment permit,  because  of  the  danger  of  spreading  the  disease. 


ACTINOMYCOSIS  (Lumpy  Jaw,  Wooden  Tongue) 

Actinomycosis  is  a  disease  rare  in  sheep,  caused  by  the  ray  fungus 
Actinomyces  bovis,  which  forms  cheesy  tumors  in  the  tongue.  Occa- 
sionally the  lips,  jaws,  or  lungs  may  be  affected. 

TREATMENT 

Give  2  grains  of  potassium  iodid  in  the  drinking  water  daily  for 
a  period  of  two  weeks. 


136 


RURAL  VETERIXARY  SECRETS 


Large   wound   caused   by   a   kick, 
IMioto  hv  Autlior. 


CHAPTER  X. 

Wounds  and  Fractures 

WIRE  CUTS,  KICKS,  CALKS  AND  WOUNDS.  (How  to 

Prevent  Callouses  and  Heal  a  Wound  Without 

Leaving  a  Scar) 

A  deep  wound  of  this  kind  is  not  safe  to  be  closed  up  at  once 
by  means  of  sutures,  especially  if  it  is  caused  by  a  kick  from  an- 
other horse,  a  wire  cut,  or  an  accident,  where  dirt,  filthy  and  poison- 
ous germs  have  been  introduced  into  the  animal  tissues  and  cannot 
be  removed  no  matter  how  carefully  you  clean  and  disinfect  the 
parts  involved.  Sewing  such  a  wound  with  the  object  of  healing 
it  up  quickly,  often  terminates  in  blood  poison  or  lockjaw,  shortly 
followed  by  death.  Often  it  is  impossible  to  secure  competent  medi- 
cal aid  in  time  to  save  a  valuable  animal. 

TREATMENT 

When  a  horse  or  any  farm  animal  has  sustained  a  wound  of 
any  kind,  whether  it  be  caused  by  a  barbed  wire,  kick,  or  other  ac- 
cident, you  should  first  of  all  remove,  with  as  little  disturbance  as 
possible,  all  particles  of  dirt,  straw,  chaff,  or  hair  from  the  wound. 
If  the  cut  is  so  large  that  the  skin  lops  down  considerably  you  may 
make  a  suture  or  two  with  twisted  silk ;  if  the  cut  is  straight  up  and 
down,  or  nearly  so,  forming  a  gap,  it  is  not  necessary  to  suture.  You 
are  now  ready  to  apply  some  antiseptic  which  will  favor  rapid  heal- 
ing and  act  as  an  astringent,  by  which  the  edges  of  the  wound  are 
practically  drawn  together.  For  this  purpose  take  an  original  pack- 
age of  Lotio  Vita,  dissolve  in  a  quart  of  rain  water,  shake  well  and 
apply  freely  with  your  hand.  Repeat  twice  daily  and  if  the  edges  of 
the  wound  become  hard  and  brittle,  occasionally  rub  on  a  little 
fresh,  unsalted  hog's  lard.  You  will  be  surprised  at  the  rapid  heal- 
ing power  of  this  preparation.  It  leaves  no  scars  or  callouses  of  any 
kind,  nor  will  it  permit  proud  flesh  to  form.  It  is  not  necessary  to 
apply  bandages  with  this  treatment,  unless  they  are  applied  to  ar- 
rest hemorrhages.  The  wound  fares  better  without  a  bandage. 
This  is  a  new  but  thoroughly  reliable  remedy.  It  has  proved  so 
satisfactory  that  I  recommend  my  readers  to  keep  a  package  on 


138  KLKAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


APPLYING  LINIMENTS  FOR  WIRE  CUTS 


'I'lic  result  ol'  applying-  liniiiKtits  to  a  wirr  tMit  prticluci  >  hirgi'  iiroiit. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


139 


hand  ready  for  use  in  case  of  emergency.     It  keeps  indefinitely  and 
is  not  expensive,  and  is  now  sold  by  all  up-to-date  druggists. 

Wire  cuts,  kicks,  and  other  wounds  are  healed  most  quickly  and 
without  leaving  any  scars  or  marks  by  dissolving  ly^  ounces  of 
Lotio  Vita  in  a  quart  of  rain  water  and  applying  twice  daily.  It  is 
rarely  necessary  to  sew  up  a  wound  when  it  is  dressed  in  this  way. 
Apply  no  bandages,  for  this  is  nature's  remedy  for  blood  poisoning 
and  heals  like  magic  if  applied  promptly  while  the  wound  is  fresh. 
Liniments  should  never  be  api)lied  to  an  open  wound.  They  are 
made  to  irritate  and  are  sure  to  produce  objectionable  callouses  and 
eye-sores.     See  Fig.  19. 


Calf  with  fractured  limb  in  plaster  cast. 
Photo  by  Author. 


FRACTURED  LIMBS 

Farm  animals  with  fractured  limbs,  especially  horses,  valuable 
blooded  cattle,  sheep,  and  dogs,  should  not  be  destroyed  without 
due  consideration  as  to  a  probable  recovery. 


TREATMENT 

If  the  fracture  is  not  too  near  a  joint,  where  it  might  possibly 
involve  the  same  and  cause  a  permanent  stiffness,  or  within   thu 


140  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


large,  tieshy  muscles  of  the  thigh  or  forearm,  a  fractured  limb  can 
be  placed  in  a  plaster  cast  and  mended  even  more  quickly  than 
that  of  a  human  being. 

In  applying  the  plaster  cast  care  must  be  taken  not  to  shut  oft 
the  circulation  in  the  parts  below  the  fracture.  For  this  purpose  we 
usually  apply  a  layer  of  absorbent  cotton  before  applying  the  plas- 
ter paris  bandage  or  cast.  Care  must  also  be  taken  to  have  proper 
drainage  of  the  wounds,  if  any  exist  in  connection  with  the  frac- 
ture, and  while  applying  the  cast  or  bandage  we  must  always  pro- 
vide reinforcements  in  the  cast,  such  as  wooden  splints,  so  that  the 
cast  will  not  shift  or  lose  its  form  before  the  plaster  is  properly  set. 
Animals  wall  not  refrain  from  moving  during  this  time,  like  human 
beings,  and  may  spoil  the  fit  and  purpose  of  the  cast. 

^riie  above  photo  cut  shows  a  blooded  Holstein  calf  nursing  its 
mother  immediately  after  the  cast  was  properly  set  on  a  fractured 
right  hind  limb.  This  calf  made  a  splendid  recovery,  the  cast  being- 
taken  oft"  and  renewed  in  68  hours,  after  which  it  remained  on  perma- 
nently until  the  bone  was  mended.  The  larger  adult  animals,  such 
as  horses  and  cattle,  should  be  confined  in  a  sling  in  order  to  keep 
them  quiet.     For  calves,  colts,  and  dogs  it  is  not  necessary. 


RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS  141 


FISTULOUS  WITHERS 

F"istulas  of  the  Withers,  of  which  the  above  is  a  typical  Hke- 
ness,  are  usually  caused  by  external  violence  of  some  kind,  such  as 
severe  jars  while  drawing  heavy  loads,  ill-fitting  collars,  bites  from 
another  horse  while  at  play,  or  during  an  actual  encounter,  severe 
blows,  running  under  some  firm  object  which  is  lower  than  the 
framework  of  the  rose,  of  which  the  withers  are  the  most  promi- 
nent part,  tightly  strapped  saddles,  etc.  These  cause  death  of  some 
of  the  inner  structures,  which  soon  act  as  foreign  bodies,  and  which 
nature  attempts  to  caddy  out  by  the  process  of  sloughing  or  sup- 
puration. Pus  pockets  are  found  in  the  region  of  the  injury,  which 
are  often  deep-seated  and  become  more  and  more  serious  as  the  case 
becomes  chronic.  The  pus  gravitates  and  involves  more  tissue  as 
the  disease  progresses ;  occasionally  you  will  notice  a  pronounced 
swelling,  which  breaks  open  and  discharges  for  a  while,  but  soon 
heals  up,  only  to  break  open  again  in  a  short  time.  Sometimes  the 
most  prominent  bony  structures  of  the  withers  (dorsal  spines)  are 
involved  to  such  an  extent  as  to  cause  necrosis  or  death  of  the  parts, 
which  necessitates  a  removal  of  some  of  the  bony  structure  before 
you  dare  attempt  to  cure  the  fistula. 


TREATMENT 

Various  theories  have  been  advanced  as  to  the  treatment  of 
fistulous  withers.  Some  of  the  writers  claim  it  to  contain  infec- 
tious germs,  which  leads  them  to  believe  that  the  disease  is  con- 
tagious, but  this  theory  receives  very  little  credit.  Although  infec- 
tious germs  are  found  in  the  fistula,  it  is  quite  probable  that  they 
have  gained  access  to  the  fistula  after  it  has  been  established  and 
most  likely  after  it  has  broken  open  and  discha'-ged,  thus  affording 
an  opening  for  the  introduction  of  germs,  which  can  hardly  be 
avoided  under  ordinary  surroundings,  as  the  farmer  or  stock  owner 
cannot  keep  the  horse's  environment  thoroughly  asceptic;  at  least 
it  is  ot  customary  for  him  to  do  so. 

Strong  caustic  solutions  are  often  injected.  As  the  fistula  has 
no  drainage  or  dependent  opening,  they  have  little  or  no  eflfect. 
Astringent  and  antiseptic  solutions  or  powders  have  practically  the 
same  effect.  The  only  reliable  remedy  is  to  remove  the  entire  fis- 
tula and  (necrotic)  bony  substance  surgically,  making  any  opening 
at  the  most  dependent  parts  of  the  pockets  and  irrigating  the  wounds 
once  or  twice  daily  with  a  solution  of  one  part  of  bichloride  of  mer- 
cury to  1,000  parts  of  water  with  a  fountain  syringe.     Make  liberal 


142 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


l*"istula   of  tlu'  witlurs. — I'lioto   bv   autlior. 


RURAL   VETERINARY  SECRETS  143 


openings  and  give  plenty  of  drainage,  so  that  the  wound  will  heal 
from  within  first  and  avoid  a  closure  of  the  outer  surface  until  all 
the  inner  structures  have  been  replaced  by  natural  granulation.  In 
making  the  incision  you  must  be  prepared  to  arrest  hemorrhages 
from  the  arteries  and  veins,  which  you  are  compelled  to  cut  in  order 
to  operate  successfully.  For  this  purpose  you  must  provide  your- 
self with  an  artery  or  haemostatic  forceps  with  which  you  can  seize 
the  vessels  and  effect  an  immediate  closure.  It  is  also  well  to  have 
on  hand  a  curved  needle  and  braided  or  twisted  silk  which  has  been 
tlu)roughly  sterilized  in  a  five  per  cent  solution  of  lysol.  All  instru- 
ments employed  should  be  sterilized  in  this  solution,  as  well  as  your 
hands,  and  clean  sponges  which  you  may  use  for  absorbing  the 
slight  capillary  hemorrhages.  It  is  always  better  to  employ  a  skilful 
veterinary  surgeon  for  this  purpose  if  one  can  be  procured  in  your 
vicinity,  one  who  is  thoroughly  acquainted  with  the  anatomy  of  the 
]iarts  and  can  perform  the  w^ork  scientifically.  The  operation  is  not 
expensive  and  is  well  worth  attending  to  in  time,  if  your  horse  is 
worth  keeping  at  all.  Should  you  conclude  to  attenrpt  this  work 
yourself  and  need  further  instructions,  write  to  the  author  asking 
for  such  information  as  you  may  desire,  and  you  will  receive  a 
prompt  reply  by  mail. 


POLL  EVIL 

Poll  ]i\\\  is  a  fistula  of  the  poll  and  is  of  tlic  same  nature  as 
fistula  of  the  withers.    Apply  the  same  treatment. 


OPEN  JOINTS 

Open  joints  arc  usually  caused  by  kicks,  wire  cuts,  nail  pricks, 
or  accidental  wounds  by  which  a  joint  is  opened  and  the  synovia 
(joint  water)  allowed  to  escape.  Wounds  of  this  kind  are  always 
dangerous,  as  the  escaping  synovia  affords  a  most  favorable  medium 
for  the  entrance  into  the  system  and  propagation  of  dangerous  in- 
fectious germs. 

Syno\-ia  can  easily  be  distinguished  from  other  discharges,  be- 
cause of  being  odorless  and  the  flow  increasing  by  each  move  of  the 
joint.     When  exposed  to  the  atmosphere  for  a  short  time  it  will 


144  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


coagulate  and  assume  the  consistenc}'  of  jelly  and  is  lighter  in  color 
than  common  pus. 

TREATMENT 

Never  probe  an  open  joint,  as  you  only  make  infection  more 
liable.  Wash  the  parts  thoroughly  clean  with  soap  and  warm  water 
and  when  dry  apply  Elk's  Dessicant  over  the  entire  surface  once 
daily  for  three  days,  or  until  the  opening  has  swollen  shut,  which 
may  happen  after  twenty-four  hours,  then  give  the  patient,  if  an 
adult  horse  or  cow,  a  large  teaspoonful  of  Sanguitone  to  resist  infec- 
tion through  the  circulation.  In  smaller  animals  give  smaller  doses 
according  to  age  and  size. 

As  an  additional  precaution  to  the  above  we  often  give  a  hypo- 
dermic injection  of  mixed  bacterins.  This  treatment  has  proved  a 
wonderful  success  in  the  extensive  practice  of  the  writer. 


CHAPTER  XL 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Muscles 
and  Extremities 

HOW  TO  LOCATE  LAMENESS  IN  A  HORSE 

Lameness  is  a  disease  or  an  injured  condition  of  a  joint,  hone, 
ligament,  tendon,  hoof,  or  muscle  of  an  animal  and  can  be  located  usu- 
ally by  heat,  swelling,  inflammation,  enlargements  and  lack  of  action 
in  any  part  of  the  body  or  limbs.    The  signs  of  location  are  as  follows : 

Hoof  lameness  improves  with  exercise.  In  cases  of  splint  lame- 
ness a  horse  walks  as  though  sound,  but  trots  lame.  In  shoulder  lame- 
ness a  horse  stumbles  coiisiderably. 

Joint  lameness  is  usually  indicated  by  heat  and  swelling.  Tendon 
lameness  is  the  same.  In  ligament  lameness  there  is  no  swelling  and 
no  heat  and  there  will  be  no  recovery  unless  the  trouble  is  located  and 
treated.  In  ringbone  and  curb  lameness  there  is  always  an  enlargement 
present.  Bone  spavin  lameness  sometimes  appears  without  enlarge- 
ment. The  animal  starts  off  on  the  points  of  his  toes  and  warms  out 
of  it  as  he  is  exercised.  Bog  spavin  or  thoroughpin  always  shows  an 
enlargement. 

TREATMENT 

Ascertain  which  of  these  descriptions  fits  your  case,  then  see  the 
index  under  its  respective  title  for  a  proper  remedy. 


FOOT  AND  LIMB  TROUBLES 

Diseases  of  the  feet  and  limbs  are  usually  brought  to  the  stock- 
man's notice  by  the  presence  of  lameness  in  the  animal  affected;  there- 
fore, we  are  justified  in  considering  LAMENEvSS  a  symptom  of  dis- 
ease in  the  parts  mentioned,  it  being  an  expression  of  pain  in  one  or 
more  limbs  during  movement.  While  the  lameness  may  be  plain,  the 
location  of  that  lameness  is  far  from  plain,  and  in  many  cases  will  per- 


146  JWRAL  YETERINAIIY  ^ECRET^ 


l)lex  even  the  expert  veterinarian;  to  aid  us  in  the  detection  of  the  dis- 
eases certain  symptoms  have  been  noticed  as  accompanying  certain  con- 
cHtions;  e.  g.,  if  the  animal  is  hime  in  the  shoulder,  the  foot  is  kept 
l)ehind  its  fellow  and  the  limb  and  knee  are  relaxed,  the  toe  touching 
the  ground.  The  limb  may  be  said  to  hang  loosely  and  when  brought 
forward  it  describes  an  out  turn.  In  elbow  lameness  the  forearm  is 
extended,  the  knee  flexed  and  the  foot  is  on  a  le\el  or  behind  its  fellow. 

LAMENESS  may  be  shown  when  the  foot  of  the  lame  leg  is  on 
the  ground,  e.  g.,  in  corns,  when  the  foot  is  oft'  the  ground  stift'ness  of 
tlie  knee  may  be  shown,  although  little  pain  is  evidenced.  It  is  useful 
lo  know  that  lameness  may  be  partially  hidden  (masked)  in  a  horse  In 
the  manipulation  of  the  groom,  such  as  exciting  him,  showing  him  on 
soft  ground,  preventing  the  animal  breaking  into  a  trot  by  holding  him 
tightly  by  the  head  and  by  keeping  the  sound  side  to  the  examiner.  The 
lame  animal  should  be  examined  both  in  the  stable  and  outside,  in  the 
latter  case  at  both  trot  and  walk,  so  as  to  properly  detect  the  trouble. 
If  the  horse  is  sound  he  will  stand  squarely  on  the  forefeet,  with  prob 
ably  one  hind  foot  rested  alternately,  or  if  very  tired,  a  near  foot  and 
oft"  hind  foot  will  be  flexed  or  vice  versa. 

POINTING  is  a  term  often  used  in  connection  with  lameness;  a 
horse  is  said  to  point  with  a  fore  foot,  if,  when  standing  he  keeps  it  in 
advance  of  its  fellow,  in  which  case  the  heel  or  toe  may  be  raised  or  the 
foot  placed  flat  upon  the  ground. 

The  novice  is  often  perplexed  to  know  whether  the  lameness  is 
before  or  behind,  according  as  the  animal  is  trotted  to  or  from  him. 
In  this  connection  it  might  be  mentioned  that  the  head  and  neck  consti- 
tute the  balancing  pole  of  the  body.  In  lameness  of  the  fore  limb  the 
head,  if  free,  will  be  raised  higher  than  usual  when  the  lame  leg,  if  a 
front  one,  comes  down  on  the  ground.  A  sharp  turn  to  the  right  or  left 
will  also  aid,  as  the  weight  will  be  thrown  on  the  forehand.  If  the 
lameness  is  behind,  the  head  will  be  lowered  when  the  limb  is  brought 
to  the  ground.  The  slow  trot  on  hard  ground  with  the  groom  a  couple 
of  feet  from  the  animal's  head,  who  is  made  to  go  straigJit  a-ivay,  will 
be  the  best  pace  at  which  to  examine.  If  lameness  in  front  is  suspected, 
have  the  animal  trotted  towards  you  and  note  the  movements  of  the 
head,  the  legs  and  the  feet ;  then  note  the  action  from  the  side,  whether 
shortened  or  not,  and  if  the  actions  of  the  muscles  of  the  limb  are  un- 
derstood, the  variations  from  the  natural  gait  will  be  more  readily  un- 
derstood. Uprightness  of  a  fore  pastern  is  symptomatic  of  lameness 
in  the  foot  of  that  limb.  Usually  if  the  fore  i)art  of  the  foot  is  aft"ecled, 
the  heel  is  lowered,  e.  g.,  in  P\)under.  If  the  back  part  is  aft"ected  as  in 
cofhn  joint  lameness,   (navicular  disease)  the  heel  is  raised,  while  if 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  147 


due  to  bad  nail  puncture  or  fracture,  the  foot  may  be  lifted  entirely 
from  the  ground.  Frequent  lifting  from  one  forefoot  to  the  other  is 
indicative  of  coffin  joint  trouble. 

If  lameness  behind  is  suspected,  let  the  animal  be  trotted  away 
from  you  and  watch  for  the  limb  on  which  the  animal  dwells  and  on 
which  he  puts  his  weight;  as  to  which  is  raised  the  higher;  whether  a 
toe  is  dragged  or  not;  then  turn  to  the  right  about  and  left  about,  no- 
ticing whether  any  reluctance  is  shown  to  putting  weight  on  a  limb. 


THE  SPAVIN  TEST 

This  test  may  be  given  if  hock  lameness  is  suspected,  by  flexing 
the  hock  tightly,  which  is  performed  by  lifting  the  limb  up  close  to  the 
body  for  a  few  minutes,  the  foot  being  let  down  and  the  animal  trotted 
off  smartly.  If  the  lameness  is  due  to  spavin,  the  lameness  will  be  more 
marked  after  giving  the  test,  the  horse  sometimes  going  off  on  the  hop. 
After  a  drive,  or  warming  up  of  a  horse,  the  lameness  will  often  disap- 
pear; in  such  cases  the  examination  should  be  deferred  until  the  horse 
has  cooled  oft",  when  the  lameness  will  usually  show  very  plainly. 
Horses  often  drive  out  of  the  lameness  when  warmed  up ;  that  is,  the 
lameness  disappears,  except  when  lame  from  SPLINTS,  SORE 
SHINS,  CORNS,  FOUNDER  or  SPRAINS.  Intermittent  lameness, 
that  is,  the  animal  goes  lame  one  time,  sound  another,  is  characteristic 
of  RHEUMATISM  or  NAVICULAR  TROUBLE. 

Lameness  behind  is  usually  in  the  hock ;  if  in  front,  the  feet  of 
heavy  horses  are  usually  affected,  light  horses  being  liable  to  affections 
of  the  cannons,  tendons  or  ligaments,  as  well  as  the  feet.  Wearing  of 
the  toe  of  a  front  shoe  is  symtomatic  of  navicular;  of  a  hind  shoe, 
spavin;  if  the  heel  is  worn  it  is  likely  to  be  due  to  either  Founder  or 
Ringbone. 


148 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


Senis  Sryst — Caused  by  a  bruise  to  the  shoulc 
due  to  an  ill-fitting  collar. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  149 


SHOULDERSLIP  (Sweeney) 

Shoulderslip,  or  as  it  is  generally  termed  "Sweeny",  is  rather  a 
common  accident  in  young  farm  horses,  especially  among  those  em- 
ployed in  breaking  new  land  containing  bush  or  tree  roots.  The  shoul- 
der muscles  are  sprained  and  as  a  result  wasting  (atrophy)  of  the  outer 
muscles  takes  place,  and  the  animal  is  then  said  to  be  SWEENIED. 
This  affection  is  easy  to  diagnose  when  once  the  wasting  has  occurred. 
The  treatment  is  necessarily  of  long  duration  owing  to  the  damage  to 
the  muscle  cells.  The  wasted  muscles  usually  take  months  to  fill  out. 
In  the  early  stages  bathing  with  hot  water.  Elk's  Vesicant,  or  better, 
injecting  10  drops  of  turpentine  in  various  parts  of  the  Sweeny,  will 
usually  give  the  desired  results.  Rest,  the  use  of  a  breast  collar  and 
avoidance  of  the  cause  will  also  aid  in  recovery. 

Wasting  of  these  muscles  may  result  from  rheumatism  or  chest 
founder  (navicular  disease). 


SORE  SHOULDER  AND  COLLAR  GALLS 

These  are  very  common  on  the  farm  and  can  best  be  jHevented  bv 
having  collars  and  harnesses  that  fit.  A  very  good  method  is,  on  return 
ing  a  horse  to  the  stable,  to  loosen  the  back  pad,  collar,  or  saddle,  lift  up 
and  replace,  leaving  there  for  15  to  30  minutes.  The  reason  for  so 
doing  is  that  the  parts  under  the  harness  are  quite  hot,  and  if  the  gear 
is  removed  at  once  the  parts  become  chilled  and  a  congested  swelling 
results,  unless  a  brisk  rubbing  is  given  the  parts.  The  use  of  a  strong 
solution  of  alum  and  water,  or  salt  and  water,  to  the  shoulders  after 
removal  of  the  harness  will  serve  to  toughen  the  parts.  If  sores  result, 
they  should  be  treated  as  ordinary  wounds.  In  some  cases  they  arc 
slow  to  heal,  e.  g.,  at  the  top  of  the  neck,  in  that  case  needing  the  stimu- 
lating effects  of  some  blistering  material  to  increase  the  blood  supply 
(o  the  parts,  while  the  chronic  sores  of  the  shoulder  often  take  on  a 
hard,  toughened  appearance,  being  termed  "sitfasts".  Such  a  condi- 
tion must  be  removed  with  the  knife  and  treated  with  a  solution  of 
Lotio  Vita. 

A  sudden  swelling  often  results  from  the  use  of  a  collar  too  small. 
It  is  not  an  abscess  containing  pus,  but  a  swelling  containing  serum, 
which  on  being  let  out  resembles  bloody  water.  Such  cases  must  be 
opened  at  the  most  dependent  parts  and  syringed  daily  with  a  solution 
of  1  part  of  bichloride  of  mercury  to  1,000  parts  of  water.  If  left 
alone  they  get  hard  and  are  a  continual  cause  of  sore  shoulder,  eventu- 
ally calling  for  the  knife,  and  if  neglected  may  cause  infection  (blood 
poison) . 


150 


RURAL   VETERINARY  ^EVRETIS 


Collar  bruise  causes   infeetioi 


RURAL  VETERINARY  HECRETii  151 


CAPPED  KNEES 

splints  are  buny  enlargements  on  the  cannon,  which  connected 
of  liedding  in  the  stall.  In  the  early  stages  bathe  with  hot  water  and 
ai)i)ly  National  Electric  Cream  twice  daily;  later  use  the  knife,  or  the 
insertion  of  a  seton  (a  piece  of  medicated  tape)  through  the  enlarge- 
ment from  top  to  bottom  will  help  reduce  the  enlargement. 


SPLINTS 

Splints  are  bony  enlargements  on  the  cannon,  \\htch  connected 
with  the  small  splint  bones  and  are  the  result  of  inflammation  caused 
by  concussions.  Young  horses  are  very  liable,  the  scrub  more  so  than 
the  pure-bred,  owing  to  the  inferior  quality  of  the  bone.  In  order  to 
detect  them,  although  in  many  cases  they  are  easily  seen,  the  finger  and 
thumb  are  passed  down  over  the  small  cannon  bone,  notice  being  taken 
of  any  variation  from  the  smoothness  of  those  bones.  The  lameness 
is  due  to  the  stretching  of  the  periosteum  (bone  covering)  during 
the  throwing  out  of  the  bony  niaterial  (splint  formation).  The 
lameness  quite  often  disappears  when  once  the  splint  is  formed,  and 
the  enlargement  may  also  disappear  in  the  same  manner  that  a  cal- 
lous does.  The  lameness  shown  is  often  out  of  all  proportion  to  tlic 
size  of  the  splint;  those  more  serious  are  close  up  to  the  knee  joint. 
Exercise  increases  the  lameness.  If  no  lameness  is  evident,  do  not 
bother  the  animal  with  blisters,  etc.  Always  let  "well  enough" 
alone.  If  lame,  give  rest,  reduce  any  inflammation  with  cold  water, 
and  thoroughly  rub  the  parts  firmly  but  gently,  with  Elk's  Absorb- 
ing Ointment  for  10  to  IS  minutes  once  a  day  for  3  days,  then  rest 
two  weeks  and  repeat  until  relieved.  Splints  arc  more  common  on 
the  fore  legs  than  on  the  hind  legs  and  more  often  on  the  inner 
side  of  the  limb. 


152 


RURAL   VETERINARY  t^EVRETH 


RINGBONE 


Ringbone  is  a  disease  of  the  bony  structure,  occurring  as  the  resuh 
of  inflammation  of  the  pastern  or  coffin  bones,  usually  on  the  hind 
pastern,  but  may  be  found  on  the  fore  limbs.  This  trouble  occurs  in 
different  locations  on  the  pasterns,  e.  g.,  the  two  pastern  bones  arc 
termed  "high  ringbone".  If  the  joint  between  the  small  pastern 
and  coffin  bone  is  affected  the  "low  ringbone"  is  said  to  exist  and 
it  is  a  serious  condition.  Somtetimes  the  enlargement  appears  on 
the  large  pastern  bone  and  is  then  termed  "false  ringbone".     The 


J'oint  firing  for  ringbone. 


bony  deposit  may  be  at  the  front  or  sides  of  the  bones  affected 
and  may  cause  lameness  by  interfering  with  the  movement  of  the  ten- 
dons or  ligaments.  Ringbone  may  be  caused  by  a  horse  going  on  the 
toe,  the  result  of  spavin.  It  is  important  to  remember  that  the  pasterns 
may  be  rough,  large  and  prominent  at  the  joints  and  yet  not  be  affected. 
The  prominences  noticed  are  to  give  attachment  to  ligaments  and 
muscles ;  both  pasterns  should  l)e  alike.  In  the  early  stages  there  is  a 
slift'ness  of  movement  of  the  pastern  joints,  and  if  in  the  fore  feet,  a 
tendency  to  waUv  on  the  heel,  the  lameness  being  shown  long  before  any 
enlargement  can  be  noticed. 

The  only  satisfactory  treatment  is  the  firing  iron,  followed  by  Elk's 
Absorbing  Ointment,  once  daily  for  three  days ;  then  rest  two  weeks 
and  repeat  until  relieved.  Ai'oid  hrcedimi  from  sires  or  dams  with  this 
disease. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  153 


SIDEBONES 

Sidebone  is  the  apt  term  used  to  describe  tlie  turning"  into  bone 
of  the  lateral  cartilages,  which  change  may  be  partial  or  complete.  As 
will  be  remembered,  these  cartilages  are  of  a  gristly  nature  and  yield 
more  or  less  under  pressure  with  the  fingers  and  thumb.  Heavy  horses 
seem  to  be  the  ones  mainly  affected  and  in  connection  with  this  fact 
concussion  can  hardly  be  the  cause.  Injury  from  stepping  on  one  an- 
other, and  HEREDITY,  greatest  of  all,  are  the  probable  causes.  The 
symptoms  are  lameness  with  a  stilty  action  and  shortness  of  gait,  hard- 
ening and  enlargement  of  the  cartilages. 

The  treatment  is  not  satisfactory,  blistering  and  tiring  doing  good 
only  in  the  earlier  stages.  A  bar  rocker  shoe  with  frog  pressure,  fo- 
mentations and  rest,  later  work  on  soft  ground,  will  be  about  the  best 
treatment.  Some  people  have  the  animal  nerved  if  the  lameness  con- 
tinues. Above  all,  do  not  breed  from  a  stallion  with  sidehones,  and  if 
judging,  throw  out  a  stallion  so  affected  always. 


(OFFIN  JOINT  LAMENESS  (Navicular  Disease) 

This  is  a  disease  of  the  coffin  joint  and  its  cartilages,  which  comes 
on  slowly,  usually  the  result  of  concussion,  more  especially  if  the  foot 
is  not  a  strong  one  and  of  good  shape.  Shoeing  with  high  heels,  thus 
relieving  the  frog  from  pressure,  will  increase  the  chances  of  concus- 
sion and  indirectly  increase  the  tendency  to  this  disease.  Long,  hard, 
continual  driving  is  a  frequent  cause;  the  endless  bang  on  a  hard  road 
will  almost  invariably  cause  this  disease.  The  speed  has  little  to  do  with 
it.  The  pastern  of  an  aflfected  foot  is  more  upright  and  concave  and 
the  heels  often  strong. 


SYMPTOMS 

Pointing  in  the  stable,  favoring  of  the  limb  affected,  shortening 
of  the  stride,  with  a  stilty,  stubby  gait,  are  all  symptoms  of  this 
disease.  If  one  notices  a  horse  affected  with  this  disease,  driven 
on  the  street,  which  is  later  on  stopped  and  tied,  the  animal  will 
be  noticed  to  paw  slightly  with  the  aiTected  fo,ot.  In  fact,  it  is  really 
hunting  a  comfortable  spot  on  which  to  rest  the  foot,  so  as  to  allow  the 
cof^n  joint  to  be  flexed;  he  may  even  rest  the  heel  on  a  stone.  If  both 
feet  are  affected,  the  gait  is  very  short,  he  paddles,  stubs  the  toes,  and 
if  the  pain  is  severe,  will  lie  down  the  greater  part  of  the  time  when  in 


154  RURAL   VETERII^ARY  i^ECRETS 


the  stable.  As  a  result  the  muscles  of  the  whole  limb  may  waste,  thus 
ii^iving  rise  t(j  the  condition  termed  "Chest  Founder".  The  hoof  and 
coronet  will  also  be  narrcnver  than  usual. 


TREATMENT 

Give  rest,  apply  Elk's  Vesicant  once  daily  for  3  days,  and  turn  on 
a  soft  pasture.  If  not  cured,  get  your  veterinarian  to  put  in  a  frog 
seton,  and  if  that  fails,  have  him  nerve  the  animal,  after  which  opera- 
tion the  feet  will  need  daily  watching  and  care,  although  it  will  enable 
the  animal  to  work  without  lameness  for  a  year  or  two  after  the  opera- 
tion. Have  the  feet  pared  so  as  to  throw  slightly  forward  on  the  toe, 
and  apply  a  wide-webbed  shoe  with  a  roll  to  the  toe. 


PRICKS  WHILE  SHOEING 

These  pricks  are  not  as  common  as  they  used  to  be,  the  shoeing 
smiths  being  more  careful  than  heretofore  and  as  a  result  of  the  various 
horseshoer's  associations  studying  the  anatomy  and  physiology  of  the 
feet.  The  cause  may  be  driving  nails  too  close  or  in  the  wrong  direc- 
tion, thus  penetrating  into  or  bearing  on  the  quick.  The  lameness  and 
l^ain  may  not  show  for  a  day  or  even  for  a  couple  of  weeks.  In  the 
latter  case  pus  is  likely  forming.  Some  horses  have  thin  walled  hoofs 
and  are  easily  pricked  ;  the  nearer  the  heel  the  greater  the  danger ;  inside 
(|uarters  being  oftener  pricked  than  outside.  If  a  horse  has  been  left 
shod  for  some  months  and  when  reshod  has  the  foot  cut  down  pretty 
well,  he  is  apt  to  go  lame,  due  to  the  strain  thrown  on  the  tendons  and 
ligaments,  or  to  the  sole  having  been  made  too  thin,  thus  pressing  on 
the  sensitive  parts,  and  the  animal  may  be  thought  to  ha\  e  been  pricked. 
If  a  horse  goes  lame  after  shoeing,  the  nail  being  driven  high  or  the 
point  not  shown,  or  the  hammer  gives  a  dull  sound,  we  may  suspect 
pricking.  If  blood  follows  the  withdrawal  of  a  nail,  or  if  the  nail  is 
wet,  due  to  matter  (pus),  we  can  be  certain  that  the  ([uick  has  been 
hurt.  In  some  cases  after  paring  the  feet  a  stain  may  be  seen  around 
the  nail  hole. 

THE  COLOR  OF  THE  MATTER  (Pus)  is  often  a  guide  as  to 
the  extent  of  the  injury.  If  black,  the  wound  is  only  superficial  and 
will  soon  recover ;  a  yellowish  color  shows  pus  more  or  less  deeply 
seated;  if  purple  and  a  putrid  smell,  the  chances  are  that  the  pedal 
bone  is  affected.  Should  great  pain  be  shown  after  letting  out  the  mat- 
ter, the  injury  is  very  serious.    In  this  form  of  disease  the  same  rules 


RURAL   VETERINARY  ^ECRETH  155 


apply  as  to  other  wounds.  Plenty  of  drainage  so  as  to  get  the  pus 
away  must  be  given ;  hence,  pare  the  foot,  steep  in  a  hot,  antiseptic  solu- 
tion for  a  couple  of  hours,  or  bath  of  Lotio  Vita,  one  ounce  to  a  pint 
of  water,  may  be  given  daily  for  an  hour.  If  the  hoof  is  hard,  the 
application  of  a  hot,  flaxseed  poultice  will  be  useful  before  doing  much 
paring  of  the  foot.  After  paring  down,  baths  followed  by  oakum  and 
tar  stoppings  are  to  be  preferred  to  poultices.  Pricks  from  shoeing  or 
from  nails  picked  up  on  the  street,  will,  if  not  attended  to,  result  in  pus 
forming  and  working  upwards  to  the  coronet  and  there  breaking  out, 
thus  forming  what  is  known  as  a  "quittor".  It  is  needless  to  say  that 
the  treatment  for  this  condition  will  have  to  be  left  to  the  surgeon. 


CORNS 

Corns  are  bruises  of  the  sensitive  sole,  usually  in  that  portion  en- 
closed by  the  inner  angle  of  the  wall  and  bars  and  usually  present  in  the 
fore  feet.  Weak  heels  predispose  to  the  disease;  very  strong  heels  may 
also  result  in  this  trouble,  due  to  pinching  of  the  sole  between  them  and 
the  pedal  bone. 

The  causes  of  corns  are  several,  chief  of  which  is  faulty  shoeing, 
l>utting  pressure  on  parts  not  intended  to  bear  it,  by  cutting  down  the 
liars  or  putting  on  short  heeled  shoes,  and  especially  by  the  common 
practice  of  leaving  shoes  on  horse's  feet  for  months  at  a  time  without 
resetting  and  removal  of  excess  horn  growth.  Excessive  thinning  of 
the  sole  and  later  stepping  on  a  stone  will  cause  the  sole  bruise  (corn). 
.Some  weak-footed  horses  will  have  corns  in  spite  of  all  methods  of 
shoeing;  barefooted  horses  rarely  have  corns. 

The  lameness  resulting  from  corns  gets  worse  as  the  animal  is 
worked.  He  may  point  his  foot  forward  while  at  rest.  If  the  shoes 
are  removed  and  the  sole  pared,  the  surface  will  be  noticed  to  be  red- 
dened and  in  some  cases  pus  may  be  found,  always  a  serious  condition. 
Removal  of  the  shoe,  paring  out  of  the  seat  of  the  corn  and  a  poultice 
to  the  foot  will  in  cases  of  lameness,  due  to  a  corn,  result  in  almost 
marvelous  cures. 


TREATMENT 

Antiseptics,  such  as  tar,  should  be  used  and  a  bar  or  thrcc-(|u;irlcr 
shoe  should  be  put  on,  care  being  taken  to  avoid  pressure  on  the  affected 
parts. 


156  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


FOOT  ROT  IN  CATTLE  AND  SHEEP 

This  disease  will  often  occur  if  the  feet  are  allowed  to  grow  too 
long  and  get  fouled  with  manure,  or  as  a  result  of  running  on  low-lying, 
\vet,  muddy  pastures.  Lameness  will  be  excessive,  the  pain  in  some 
cases  causing  the  animal  to  go  off  its  feed,  fall  behind  the  flock,  or  herd, 
and  sometimes  go  on  its  knees.  In  such  cases  trim  down  the  feet  and 
bathe  in  a  Lotio  Vita  solution,  1^  ounces  to  a  quart  of  water.  Two 
or  three  applications  of  Lotio  Vita  solution  will  usually  cure  most  cases. 
Where  large  numbers  need  treatment  the  solution  is  made  and  placed 
in  a  wooden  trough  and  the  animals  walked  through  it. 

A  good  way  to  treat  cattle  affected  is  to  take  a  piece  of  cheese- 
cloth soaked  with  the  drug.  After  cleaning  between  the  cleft,  work 
back  and  forth  and  then  a  clean  piece  of  cheese-cloth  which  has  been 
soaked  in  the  solution  may  be  tied  on  the  foot.  In  severe  cases  poultice 
with  flaxseed  or  boiled  turnips,  after  cleaning  and  dressing  with  the 
solution.    Do  not  use  cow  dung,  or  other  dirty  materials. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


157 


STIFLE  OUT  (Luxation  of  the  Patella^ 


Luxation  of  the  patella  of  a  yearling  colt. 


Stiflle  Out  exists  in  two  forms,  the  partial  and  complete.  The 
former  is  usually  found  in  young  colts,  the  result  of  heredity;  stallions 
poorly  muscled  through  the  stifles  get  such  stock;  the  latter  in  older 
animals,  the  result  of  an  accident.  In  young  colts  the  bone  will  be 
seen  to  slip  in  and  out,  a  clicking  noise  being  made  at  each  step;  for 
such  cases  Elk's  Vesicant  repeated  at  two-week  intervals  will  often  aid 
the  young  patient.  To  avoid  such  cases  feed  well,  and  do  not  keep  on 
very  hilly  pastures,  also  avoid  making  the  foal  following  its  dam  dur- 
ing the  day  while  working.  The  construction  (anatomy)  of  the  parts 
will  aid  in  understanding  this  trouble  and  the  means  of  reduction.  In 
partial  dislocations  in  grown  horses  a  sharp  crack  of  a  whip  will  startle 
Ihe  animal  and  the  bone  will  fly  into  place;  in  other  cases  (complete 
dislocation),  it  will  be  necessary  to  place  a  rope  around  the  fetlock  of 


158  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


the  affected  limb,  and  have  an  assistant  to  draw  the  limb  well  forward, 
the  hand  being  used  to  press  the  bone  forward  and  inwards  at  the  same 
time,  when  it  will  usually  fly  into  place  with  a  sharp  click.  Once  in 
place  it  is  best  retained  there  by  keeping  the  limb  well  forward  by 
means  of  a  side  line  and  by  the  use  of  a  stifle  shoe  (a  shoe  with  a  piece 
of  iron  projecting  in  front  four  or  live  inches)  on  the  foot  of  the  af- 
fected limb.  A  smart  blister.  hJk's  \'esicant,  applied  twice  at  an  inter- 
val of  two  weeks,  will  assist  in  repairing  the  injury.  That  the  animal 
should  be  rested  during  the  treatment  every  sensible  person  will  under- 
stand.   Treatment  in  these  cases  should  be  prompt. 

When  the  lesion  occurs  the  limb  aft'ected  if  stiff,  nailed  to  the 
ground  as  it  were,  kept  out  behind  the  body  and  if  made  to  move  is 
dragged  with  the  toe  down.  The  wall  and  even  the  front  of  the  pastern 
may  be  on  the  ground.    The  animal  moves  with  very  great  difficulty. 


RURAL   VETERINARY  HEimETS 


159 


SPAVIN 


Point  firing  for  spavin. 


Spavin  is  the  bane  of  horse  flesh  and  horsemen,  and  while  of  two 
kinds,  (a)  bone  spavin,  afifecting  the  bones  of  the  hock,  and  (b)  bog 
spavin,  affecting  the  bursae  of  the  joint  and  adjacent  structures,  there 
is  httle  difference  as  to  the  serious  nature  of  either  trouble,  owing  to 
the  difficulty  in  curing  either  form  of  spavin. 


160  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


BONE  SPAVIN   (Jack) 

Bone  Spavin  is  a  disease  of  the  bones  of  the  hock  joint,  an  in- 
flammation of  the  articular  (joint)  surface,  as  a  result  of  which  marked 
lameness  is  usually  shown,  following  which  a  bony  enlargement  is 
thrown  out  at  the  lower  part  of  the  internal  side  of  the  hock  joint.  The 
result  of  this  disease  often  is  stiffening  of  the  joint.  The  more  serious 
bone  spavins  are  those  affecting  the  upper  row  of  hock  bone,  situated 
towards  the  front  of  the  joint  and  affecting  animals  over  six  years  old. 
Coarse  hocks  may  exist  and  if  there  is  no  lameness  and  both  are  alike, 
should  not  be  condemned.  The  causes  of  spavin  are  bad  conforma- 
tion, sprains,  excessive  work  of  the  hind  limbs,  result  of  jumping,  high 
school  work,  tying  in  below  the  hocks.  This  disease  is  sometimes  seen 
in  cattle  and  sheep. 

Spavin  is  in  many  cases  easily  detected.  The  enlargement  being 
accompanied  by  lameness,  which  is  characterized  by  a  shortening  of  the 
stride,  dragging  of  the  toe,  which  is  unnaturally  worn  as  a  consequence 
of  the  lameness,  which  the  horse  will  warm  out  of,  but  if  stood  up  for 
twelve  to  twenty-four  hours,  will  show  quite  markedly.  If  recent, 
there  may  be  heat  of  the  parts  and  no  enlargement ;  in  fact,  in  that 
form  known  as  OCCULT  (hidden)  Spavin,  no  enlargement  is  shown 
at  all. 


EXAMINATION  OF  THE  HOCKS 

To  detect  the  enlargement  the  examiner  should  stand  in  front  and 
a  little  to  the  outside  of  the  foreleg  of  the  same  side  as  the  hock  to  be 
examined.  The  hock  should  present  a  somewhat  wedge-shaped  appear- 
ance, the  base  being  upwards.  By  placing  one's  self  in  a  similar  posi- 
tion by  the  other  foreleg,  the  other  hock  is  seen  and  a  comparison  made, 
the  only  safe  way  to  detect  the  enlargement.  If  suspected,  the  examiner 
may  flex  (close  the  joint),  the  hock  up  tightly  and  have  the  animal 
trotted  off  quickly,  which  if  aft'ected,  will  limp  perceptibly.  The  hocks 
should  also  be  felt  with  the  hands,  the  oft'  hock  with  the  left  palm,  etc. 
The  treatment  is  preventive  and  curative,  the  former  by  avoiding  the 
use  of  spavined  sires  or  dams,  by  proper  shoeing  and  avoidance  of  too 
heavy  loads.  The  curative  consists  in  reducing  the  inflammation  by 
giving  rest,  warm  fomentations,  a  high-heeled  shoe,  and  l-.lk's  Absorb- 
ing Ointment,  and  if  that  fails,  ihe  firing  iron  and  blister,  which  should 
be  left  to  the  veterinarian.  Ne\er  apply  strong  acids  to  eat  out  the 
b(»iie.     .See  illustration,  Vig.  No.  33. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  161 


A  spavin  as  it  ought  to  appear  when  properly  fired  with  a  thermo- 
cautery, leaving  no  scar  or  blemishes  and  relieving  the  lameness  perma- 
nently. 


162 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


An  attempted  cure  for  spavin  by  misapplying  drugs  fails  to  relieve  lame- 
ness and  leaves  a  blemish  forever. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  163 


BOG  SPAVIN 

Bog  Spavin  is  a  condition  in  which  the  capsular  ligament  of  the 
hock  joint  is  distended  by  joint  oil  (synovia),  appearing  as  a  soft  swell- 
ing on  the  inner  sides  of  the  hock,  just  above  the  site  of  bone  spavin. 
This  disease  occurs  in  two  forms,  (1)  without  any  inflammation  or 
lameness;  (2)  a  hard,  painful  swelling  with  accompanying  lameness. 
The  causes  are  premature  overwork;  defective  conformation  due  to 
heredity ;  the  swelling  being  soft  and  cool ;  it  may  be  due  to  overfeed- 
ing, such  as  for  show  purposes.  In  such  cases  cold  water  compresses 
and  a  good  hand  rubbing  for  20  to  30  minutes  before  taking  before  the 
judges  will  often  remove  the  enlargement  for  a  short  time;  treatment 
is  usually  unsatisfactory,  pressure  by  the  use  of  a  Bog  Spavin  and 
Thoroughpin  truss  being  the  best. 


THOROUGHPIN 


Thoroughpin  off  hind  leg. 
Photo  by  Author. 

Thoroughpin  is  rarely  absent  when  Bog  Spavin  exists,  and  is  due 
to  the  pressure  of  the  fluid  constituting  the  Bog  Spavin  on  the  bursae 
of  the  perforans  tendon,  which  is  thus  pushed  out  of  place.  This  lesion 
appears  as  a  swelling  at  the  back  part  of  the  hind  leg,  just  above  the 
joint  of  the  hock  and  in  front  of  the  hamstring.  It  can  be  pressed  from 
side  to  side  with  the  finger.  The  treatment  is  the  same  as, for  bog 
spavin.  In  draft  stallions  it  may  be  due  to  a  sprain  of  the  tendons,  a 
serious  condition. 


164  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CURB 

Curb  is  an  enlargement  (a  bowing  out)  at  the  back  part  of  the 
hock,  about  six  to  eight  inches  below  its  point.  Usually  it  is  described 
as  a  sprain  of  the  ligaments  at  the  back  of  the  hock.  Quite  often  the 
bones  of  the  part  are  affected  also,  the  enlargement  being  due  in  many 
cases  to  the  pushing  outward  of  the  ligament  by  the  inflammed  bone. 
To  detect  the  enlargement  it  is  often  necessary  to  stand  to  one  side  of 
the  hock  and  then  to  the  other  so  as  to  see  the  back  line  of  the  leg  in 
profile.  The  causes  of  this  trouble  are  many;  jumping  and  slipping, 
going  up  steep  inclines,  and  more  especially  conformation,  the  result 
of  heredity.  Horsemen  often  speak  of  Curby  (sickle)  hocks;  such  a 
conformation  is  especially  liable  to  curb,  and  is  readily  transmitted  to 
the  progeny  by  an  affected  sire.  The  leverage  exerted  in  connection 
wdth  the  hock  joint  is  very  powerful,  the  ground  being  the  fulcrum; 
the  wxight,  the  resistance  of  the  head  of  the  lower  thigh  bone ;  the 
power,  the  muscles  of  the  gaskin  (lower  thigh)  attached  to  the  point 
of  the  hock.    The  tendency  to  curb  will  be  increased  by : 

(1)  W'.ork  too  severe  for  the  strength  of  the  lever. 

(2)  By  disease  or  immaturity  having  rendered  the  parts  unecjual 

to  the  strain, 

(3)  By  the  surface  for  attachment  of  the  ligaments  being  too 

small,  a  tied-in  hock, 

(4)  By  the  muscles  of  the  gaskin  being  very  strong, 

(5)  By  the  presence  of  a  large  angle  formed  by  the  direction  of 

the  weight  and  lever,  as  in  the  Sickle  Hock. 

It  is  an  unsoundness  and  a  very  bad  defect  in  stallions ;  is  probably 
more  common  in  light  than  heavy  horses.  Lameness  is  shown  in  the 
earlier  stage  as  a  rule.  The  application  of  a  high-heeled  shoe,  and  Elk's 
Absorbing  Ointment  once  daily  for  3  or  4  days,  will  generally  overcome 
the  trouble.  If  the  lameness  and  enlargement  persist,  the  veterinarian 
should  be  asked  to  fire  the  parts. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


165 


Bad    (curby)    Hind   Legs   C,  a  curb. 


166  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


STRINGHALT 

Stringhalt  is  a  disease  of  a  tendon  of  the  hind  limb.  It  used  to  be 
classed  as  a  purely  nervous  affection.  The  affected  parts  (tendons) 
undergo  severe  contractions  as  a  result  of  inflammation  of  those  ten- 
dons. The  exaggerated  flexing  of  the  hock,  more  quickly  than  natural, 
and  high  lifting  of  the  foot  seen  when  the  animal  is  backed  or  moved 
forward,  render  the  recognition  of  this  diseases  quite  plain.  The  treat- 
ment is  surgical  and  consists  in  cutting  the  tendon  (peroneus)  a  short 
distance  below  the  hock. 


Curing  a  stringhalt  by  severing  the  peroneus  tendon. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


167 


SHOEBOIL  (Capped  Elbow) 


A  typical  shoeboil  before  operation. 

Shoeboil  is  situated  at  the  point  of  the  elbow,  the  result  of  too 
narrow  stalls,  lack  of  bedding  or  pressure  of  the  heels  of  the  shoe  when 
lying  down.  To  prevent  it  the  heel  should  be  padded,  or  a  piece  of 
2x2  inch  stuff  nailed  crosswise  in  the  stall,  about  half  way  back.  This 
trouble  usually  calls  for  the  intervention  of  the  surgeon  before  being 
finally  cured.  If  it  is  well  fomented  with  warm  water  in  the  early 
stages  and  Elk's  Absorbing  Ointment  applied  every  day  for  4  or  5  days, 
the  more  serious  blemish  mav  be  avoided. 


168  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

CAPPED  HOCKS 


Capped  hocks. 
Photo  by  Author. 

This  condition  is  brought  about  by  a  bruise,  or  external  violence 
to  the  hock.  Sometimes  horses  do  this  by  getting  up  in  a  hard-floored 
stall. 

TREATMENT 

First  of  all  you  must  ascertain  the  cause,  whatever  it  may  be  and 
remove  it.  Then  cut  the  hair  off  close  to  the  skin  over  the  entire 
enlargement  and  rub  well  with  Elk's  Absorbing  Ointment  once  daily 
for  four  or  five  days.  Then  rest  a  week  to  give  the  hair  a  chance  to 
grow  and  apply  again.  Do  not  wash  off  at  any  time  after  apphing 
the  Ointment  unless  the  parts  become  dirty.  The  above  may  be  applied 
a  third  time  if  reduction  of  the  cap  is  not  complete.  These  enlarge- 
ments contain  synovia  (joint  water)  and  do  not  yield  to  treatment  as 
quickly  as  ordinary  enlargements ;  therefore,  you  must  have  a  little 
more  patience. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  169 


THRUSH 

Thrush  is  a  foul  condition  of  a  horse's  foot,  affecting  particularly 
the  frog  or  spongy  parts.  A  moist  condition  is  usually  noticed  about 
the  cleft  of  the  frog,  which  has  an  offensive  odor  and  is  of  a  dirty 
black  color.  The  hoof  is  feverish  and  soon  becomes  contracted  and 
tender.  As  the  disease  works  upward  into  the  sensitive  parts  of  the 
hoof,  the  horse  becomes  lame.  If  not  relieved  in  a  short  time,  cancer 
and  ill-formed  hoofs  are  the  result. 

TREATiMENT 

Thrush  is  easy  to  cure  in  its  early  stages.  A  single  application 
of  Elk's  Anti-Thrush  packed  firmly  into  the  cleft  of  the  frog  and  every 
ramification  of  the  affected  area,  in  the  evening,  will  show  a  wonder- 
ful improvement  by  the  next  morning.  If  the  case  is  an  old  one,  where 
the  frog  becomes  ragged  and  decayed,  the  foul  portions  must  be  com- 
pletely removed  down  to  the  healthy  parts  before  applying  the  Anti- 
Thrush.  In  such  cases,  repeated  applications  must  be  made,  as  many 
as  the  case  may  require. 


COCKED  ANKLES 

Cocked  Ankles  are  caused  by  a  thickening  of  the  posterior  tendons 
of  the  leg,  due  to  a  slip  or  strain  generally.  The  thickened  parts  natur- 
ally become  shorter  and  bring  about  the  cocked  condition. 

TREATMENT 

To  bring  about  recovery  we  must  absorb  the  unnatural,  thickened 
parts  so  that  the  tendon  will  stretch  to  its  usual  length  and  perform  its 
natural  functions.  To  do  this  remove  the  shoe  and  pare  off  all  super- 
fluous horny  substance.  Bathe  the  thickened  portion  of  the  tendon  in 
warm  water  for  15  minutes  twice  daily,  after  which  you  must  rub  the 
parts  well  with  National  Electric  Cream.  This  is  a  sure  cure  for  an 
acute  case.  If  the  case  is  of  long  standing  and  has  become  chronic  it 
may  be  necessary  to  use  Absorbing  Ointment  instead  of  the  Electric 
Cream,  or  it  may  be  neecssary  to  resort  to  the  firing  iron,  if  both  of  the 
above  mentioned  remedies  fail. 


170  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CONTRACTED  HOOFS  OF  HORSES 

Contracted  hoofs  are  usually  brittle  and  feverish  following  contin- 
ual hammering  on  the  hard,  dry  highways,  or  any  condition  that  will 
bring  about  acute  or  chronic  founder.  Following  chronic  founder  the 
hoof  will  take  on  the  ramhorned  shape  and  appearance. 


TREATMENT 

Take  off  the  shoes,  soak  the  hoofs  in  water  or  a  linseed  poultice 
for  twenty- four  hours,  then  pare  the  sole  down  as  close  to  life  as  possi- 
ble and  rub  well  with  axle  grease  over  the  entire  hoof.  Clip  oft*  the 
hair  above  the  hoof  about  one  and  one-half  inches  all  around  and  rub 
once  daily  for  five  minutes  with  Elk's  Vessicant.  Do  this  for  3  days, 
then  send  to  pasture  or  give  the  freedom  of  a  large  box  stall  for  10 
days,  when  the  above  treatment  may  be  repeated  until  the  hoof  has 
grown  larger  from  the  coronet  to  the  wearing  surface,  which  will  take 
about  six  weeks. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  171 


HOW  TO  TREAT  A  NAIL  PRICK 

Nails,  if  picked  up  on  the  street  or  barnyard  are  always  dangerous 
when  they  enter  into  the  live  tissue  of  the  animal's  body,  especially  so 
when  rusty  and  introduced  through  the  horny  part  of  the  hoof.  Rusty 
nails  always  carry  germs  which  cannot  be  avoided  and  such  pricks  are 
the  common  causes  of  lockjaw  and  septicemia,  owing  to  the  fact  that 
a  nail  is  extracted  and  the  germs  which  are  taken  in  with  it  are  scraped 
oft"  with  the  horny  tissue  and  allowed  to  remain  within  the  live  and 
sensitive  part  of  the  hoof.  The  fact  that  the  wound  is  small  and  closes 
immediately  after  the  nail  is  extracted  is  the  most  dangerous  to  the  ani- 
mal, as  this  is  the  most  favorable  environment  for  the  propagation  of 
the  lockjaw  germs.  These  germs  cannot  propagate  where  there  is 
access  to  air  and  sunlight. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  is  to  immediately  extract  the  nail  and  make  a  liberal 
opening  to  the  extent  of  the  wound  caused  by  the  nail,  thereby  allowing 
access  of  air  and  a  free  drainage.  When  this  has  been  done,  drop  a 
few  drops  of  Solution  of  Lotio  Vita  in  the  wound.  This  w^ill  antago- 
nize septic  germs  of  any  kind.  If  there  are  signs  of  great  pain  a  warm 
linseed  poultice  may  be  renewed  twice  daily  and  the  wound  treated  as 
above  described. 


SORE  NECK 

Horses  frequently  get  sore  and  very  painful  necks  while  working, 
especially  in  the  spring  and  early  summer.  There  will  be  an  eruption 
of  the  skin  attended  with  swelling  and  a  discharge.  This  is  due  to 
humor  in  the  blood  and  must  be  treated  through  the  circulation.  Noth- 
ing will  give  quicker  and  more  satisfactory  relief  than  one  teaspoon- 
ful  of  Sanguitone  given  in  moist  food  three  times  daily.  Wash  the 
wound  with  warm  water,  just  as  warm  as  you  can  bear  to  your  hand, 
three  times  daily.    Dress  with  Lotio  Vita  as  directed  on  package. 


CHAPTER  Xll, 

Common  Farm  Operations 

DEHORNING 

Dehorning  is  a  surgical  operation  usually  performed  on  cattle,  by 
which  they  are  rendered  more  tame,  and  consequently  more  easily 
handled.  Aly  experience  is  that  if  properly  done  bad  results  are  very 
few.  Cattle  will  often  go  right  to  eating;  some  cows  will  not  even  show 
any  appreciable  shrinkage  in  their  milk ;  for  the  control  of  bulls  this 
operation  is  indispensable.  The  operation  is  best  performed  during 
cool  weather,  so  as  to  avoid  flies,  during  the  period  from  October  until 
April.  Best  results  are  obtained  in  yearling  and  two-year-old  cattle. 
The  instruments  in  general  use  are  the  slippers  or  saw.  I  prefer  the 
former  as  being  handier,  calling  for  less  restraint  of  the  animal,  and  if 
kept  in  good  shape,  well-oiled  and  sharp,  do  just  as  good  work,  only  in 
a  great  deal  less  time.  Bleeding  from  the  operation  is  rarely  serious. 
In  heavy  milking  cows  it  may  sometimes  need  attention. 

Smear  the  hair  at  the  base  of  the  horn  with  vaseline  and  turn  it 
back;  then  secure  the  animal  to  a  strong  post  by  means  of  a  chain  or 
rope,  so  that  it  can  be  quickly  released.  A  stanchion  might  be  used. 
Insert  the  bulldog  (a  nose  forceps)  into  the  nose  and  draw  the  head 
around  to  the  flank.  The  operator  then  applies  the  clipper  over  the 
exposed  horn  and  brings  it  as  close  to  the  head  as  possible,  the  object 
being  to  remove  about  one- fourth  inch  of  the  skin  along  with  the  horn, 
thus  destroying  the  horn  matrix  and  preventing  the  growth  of  unsightly 
stubs.  To  make  a  nice-looking  head  be  careful  to  so  apply  the  clippers 
that  the  cut  will  slope  inwards  from  the  bottom  of  che  horn  base ;  thus  a 
pointed  poll,  resembling  that  of  the  Angus,  will  result.  Calves  may  be 
dehorned  by  caustics,  of  which  several  varieties  are  on  the  market. 
A  cheaper  method,  just  as  good,  is  to  buy  caustic  potash  in  the  stick 
form  at  the  drug  store.  It  will  be  necessary  to  wrap  cloth  about  it 
when  using  or  the  fingers  will  also  be  cauterized.  It  is  applied  around 
the  base  of  the  horns,  just  where  they  join  the  skin. 


174  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

TAPPING  THE  FIRST  STOMACH  OR  PAUNCH 

(For  Bloating) 

This  is  performed  in  cattle  and  sheep  when  badly  bloated.  The 
instrument  used  being  known  as  the  trocar,  a  pointed  rod,  and  the 
canula,  a  hollow  tube.  It  can  be  used  for  ringing  bulls.  The  operation 
is  performed  in  the  upper  left  flank  at  a  point  equal  distant  from  the 
point  of  the  hip,  the  last  rib  and  hones  of  the  loin.  The  instrument 
being  applied  to  the  point  described  is  given  a  sharp  tap  and  pushed 
in  its  full  length,  the  trocar  withdrawn,  the  gas  then  rushes  out  of  the 
canula,  which  may  be  left  in  for  five  or  ten  minutes.  The  paunch  is 
the  organ  tapped  in  cattle  and  sheep ;  the  tapping  of  horses  should  be 
left  to  the  veterinarian.  Rumenotomy.  This  is  an  operation  for  the 
removal  of  food  in  cases  of  impacted  rumen.  The  operation  when 
done,  consists  of  the  opening  and  removal  of  its  contents  and  sewing 
up  by  the  veterinarian.  It  should  not  be  left  to  the  eleventh  hour. 
Good  results  follow  when  performed  early  and  with  antiseptic  pre- 
cautions. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  175 


CASTRATION 

Castration  is  usually  performed  on  colts,  at  a  year  old;  if  light  in 
the  neck  and  fore  quarters  they  may  be  left  until  two  years.  The  oper- 
ation is  done  either  in  the  standing  or  lying  position.  The  first  is  hazar- 
dous and  requires  an  agile  and  expert  man,  but  of  recent  years  it  is 
found  most  practical  because  it  presents  the  organs  in  their  natural 
position.  This  operation  should  not  be  performed  unless  the  colt  is 
in  good  health  ;  the  results  are  better  if  a  run  at  grass  for  a  few  days  has 
first  been  obtained.  The  instruments  needed  are  the  emasculator  and 
a  castrating  knife,  which  should  be  placed  in  an  antiseptic  solution  ten 
minutes  before  operating,  the  hands  and  arms  being  also  cleansed  with 
the  same  material.  It  is  also  good  practice  to  first  examine  the  parts 
for  ruptures,  etc. 

THE  ESSENTIALS  TO  SUCCESS  in  Castration  are:  Thorough 
cleanliness,  obtained  by  the  plentiful  use  of  antiseptics ;  good  health  at 
the  time  of  operations  and  exercise  afterw^ards.  The  scrotum  is  seized 
between  the  finger  and  thumb,  so  as  to  tighten  the  skin  over  it  and  a 
good  incision  (four  inches  or  thereabouts)  made  over  the  testicle  right 
through  the  coverings  of  the  testicle,  which  will  then  pop  out.  The 
emasculator  is  applied  well  up  on  the  cord  and  with  the  rough  edge  to 
the  body,  and  the  handles  closed,  the  testicle  is  removed,  the  operation 
being  repeated  similarly  on  the  other  testicle.  Some  of  the  antiseptic 
may  be  poured  into  the  wounds.  A  colt  should  be  stabled  for 
eight  to  ten  hours,  when  it  should  be  turned  out  with  the  others. 
If  a  mature  horse,  hitch  and  give  a  short  drive  or  slow  work;  if  cold 
rains  occur  the  animal  must  be  stabled.  The  wounds  should  be  exam- 
ined occasionally  in  order  to  see  that  they  are  kept  open,  thus  insuring 
the  drainage  away  of  any  pus.  It  should  be  remembered  that  the  testi- 
cles of  colts  may  not  descend  until  twelve  months  old,  sometimes  as 
late  as  two  years  old. 

Bulls  are  castrated  standing,  the  head  being  tied  up  solidly  to  a 
strong  post.  An  attendant  at  each  side  steadies  him,  the  operator 
stands  squarely  behind  the  bull,  seizes  the  scrotum,  gives  it  half  a  turn 
round  and  draws  it  out  between  the  hind  legs.  The  incision  is  made 
from  nearly  the  top  to  the  bottom  of  the  sac,  the  testicle  drawn  out 
and  removed  with  the  emasculator,  or  the  cord  is  scraped  slowly  with 
the  knife  until  severed,  the  remaining  testicle  being  removed  similarly. 
Calves  are  thrown  down,  the  end  of  the  scrotum  cut  ofif,  the  testicles 
drawn  out  until  the  cord  breaks  or  the  cord  is  scraped  off  as  before. 
Lambs  are  castrated  in  a  similar  way,  being  held  as  described  for  small 


176 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


'U'  op^  r.aiLiii  oi   Ciislration   iii  >1 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  177 


X 

H 

'  "^^^HI^H^^^I 

|..      'M 

M 

^^'*'^HH^^— 

H 

^ 

1  -^ 

Cepticema,  the  result  of  castration  when  colt  was  aftected  with  distemper. 


178  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


pigs.    The  knife  or  docking  shears  may  be  used  for  taking  off  the  piece 
of  the  scrotum,  which  may  be  left  any  length  desired. 

Rams  are  castrated  similarly  to  bulls,  or  by  turning.  (With  the 
ram,  you  have  him  turned  upon  his  haunches,  clip  the  wool  off  the 
scrotum  to  get  it  out  of  the  way.  Have  someone  hold  the  ram  and  hold 
the  hind  feet  up  pretty  close  to  the  body,  unless  you  wish  to  go  to  the 
trouble  of  tying.  Take  the  end  of  the  scrotum  in  one  hand  and  with 
the  other  press  the  testicles  well  up  into  the  body  so  as  to  tear  them 
loose  from  the  end  of  the  pounch,  you  can  usually  feel  them  give  way, 
now  bring  them  down  and  taking  them  one  at  a  time  invert  them  and 
revolve  them  three  times  around  the  cord  or  until  it  is  twisted  tight. 
This  you  will  find  is  not  the  easiest  job  until  you  get  on  to  it.  You  can 
tell  when  the  cord  is  twisted  tightly  by  passing  the  linger  along  and 
feeling  the  spiral  condition  and  the  hardness.  When  you  get  one 
twisted  let  it  draw  up  into  the  socket  so  it  will  not  turn  back  right  end 
up,  while  you  operate  on  the  other.  Having  them  both  done,  tie  the 
sac  close  up  with  a  soft  cord.  Tie  tight  enough  to  prevent  them  com- 
ing down  and  turning  back.  Cut  the  strings  off  after  24  to  36  hours." — 
Curtis  and  Edgerton,  Iowa  Agricultural  College).  In  this  method 
germ  infection,  so  much  dreaded  in  rams,  is  avoided.  Another  method 
lauded  by  some,  and  which  has  been  tried  at  the  Station  (\V.  E.  S.) 
is  to  tie  a  strong  cord  around  the  sac  or  cod  as  close  to  the  body  and 
as  tight  as  possible.  Three  days  later  the  sac  and  stones  are  cut  away 
about  an  inch  below  the  cord  and  an  antiseptic  applied  to  the  cut  end. 

Caponizing  is  the  operation  performed  in  removing  the  testicles 
of  poultry. 

SPAYING  OR  CASTRATION  of  female  may  be  performed  in 
the  sow,  bitch  and  cow,  rarely  in  the  mare,  unless  a  bad  (vicious)  actor 
(e.  g.,  switcher  and  kicker)  in  harness.  The  surgeon  should  be  called 
to  operate  on  mares,  and  unless  the  stockman  is  expert,  on  the  heifers 
also.  Females  thus  operated  on,  fatten  more  readily  and  are  not  sub- 
ject to  the  periods  of  heat ;  if  a  sow  it  is  placed  on  its  right  side  and 
secured,  the  upper  hind  leg  being  stretched  backwards,  an  incision 
made  vertically  just  below  the  region  of  the  loin  and  the  hand  passed 
in  up  towards  the  back  and  the  ovary  felt  for.  When  found  it  is  drawn 
towards  the  opening,  thus  drawing  the  horn  of  the  uterus  also,  render- 
ing the  other  ovary  easy  to  get  in  }oung  sows.  Both  ovaries  are  drawn 
out  and  snipped  oft"  at  once.  In  old  sows,  only  one  is  exposed  at  a 
time  and  its  ovary  removed.  The  operation  may  be  performed  on  the 
cow  or  heifer  in  the  standing  position,  the  incision  being  made  through 
the  upper  left  flank  at  the  spot  selected  for  tapping  a  cow,  a  strong 
scantling  being  slung  parallel  to  the  cow  at  a  level  a  little  above  the 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  179 


knee  and  hocks.  The  head  should  be  fastened  securely  and  the  bulldog 
may  be  inserted  in  the  nose.  The  incision  is  made  with  a  knife  through 
the  skin.  The  operator  can  with  his  fingers  secure  the  ovaries  which 
are  snipped  off  by  the  spaying  scissors,  and  then  brought  out.  The  inci- 
sion should  be  just  large  enough  to  admit  the  hand.  A  stitch  or  two 
through  the  skin,  muscles  and  peritoneum  draws  the  wound  together, 
tar  being  applied  over  all.  The  animal  should  be  starved  for  thirty-six 
hours  before  the  operation  and  should  only  get  light  sloppy  feed  or 
grass  afterwards  for  a  few  days. 


RUPTURES 

Ruptures  may  occur  in  pigs  and  lambs.  If  shown  after  castration, 
cleanse  the  bowels  with  tepid  water  containing  some  mild  antiseptic 
and  return  them,  to  do  which  it  may  be  necessary  to  stand  the  animal 
head  downwards,  and  also  to  introduce  the  finger  into  the  rectum. 
When  returned  sew  up  the  opening  as  close  to  the  body  as  possible, 
keep  quiet  and  give  but  little  food.  The  navel  rupture  (umbilical 
hernia  is  the  technical  term)  is  often  seen  in  foals,  and  quite  frequently 
disappears  by  the  time  the  animal  is  a  year  old.  Previous  to  that  time 
the  enlargement  may  be  blistered,  some  cases  recovering  from  that 
treatment ;  if,  however,  it  persists  beyond  the  age  stated,  a  good  sur- 
geon should  be  employed. 

Entires  and  geldings  are  sometimes  ruptured  in  the  region  of  the 
groin  (inguinal  hernia)  and  the  rupture  may  even  extend  down  into 
the  scrotum  in  any  male  entire,  constituting  what  is  known  as  scrotal 
hernia.  In  the  latter  case  the  skilled  surgeon's  help  is  needed ;  the 
former  trouble  (inguinal  hernia  is  often  the  cause  of  severe  colicky 
symptoms  in  stallions  and  if  not  relieved,  becomes  fatal.  The  symp- 
toms are  as  follows :  Suddenness  of  attack,  colicky  pains  growing 
more  intense  all  the  time,  arching  the  back,  lying  on  the  ground  or  sit- 
ting up  like  a  dog,  pawing  the  ground,  sweating  heavily;  the  cord 
(spermatic)  will  be  thickened  and  the  scrotum  feel  cold  to  the  touch. 
In  such  cases  give  a  large  dose  of  laudanum,  three  ounces  in  half  a 
pint  of  raw  linseed  oil.  If  possible  throw  and  turn  the  animal  on  its 
back  and  after  oiling  the  hand  introduce  it  into  the  rectum,  and  by 
gentle  traction  inside  and  working  outside  the  bowel  may  be  returned. 


180 


RURAL  TETERrNARY  SECRETS 


Large    luiibilical    hernia    successfully    reduced   by    surgical    operation. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


181 


Same  patient  six  weeks  after  operation. 


182  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


GENERAL  TREATMENT  OF  WOUNDS 

THE    GENERAL   TREATMENT    OF   WOUNDS    may   be 

briefly  stated  as  follows :  First,  to  stop  the  bleeding  and  remove  any 
foreign  substance,  such  as  dirt;  second,  to  protect  from  germs; 
third,  to  bring  the  parts  as  closely  together  as  possible,  keep  down 
excessive  inflammation,  and  prevent  the  accumulation  of  dis- 
charges. A  wound  is  said  to  be  healthy  when  it  looks  like  a  clean 
cut;  unhealthy  when  it  is  pale,  covered  with  pus,  small  clots  of 
blood  or  proud  flesh ;  inflamed  or  angry  when  hot  and  of  a  dark 
red  color;  indolent  when  the  process  of  healing  seems  stopped 
before  the  proper  time,  e.  g.,  a  sitfast.  It  may  be  stated  as  a  gen- 
eral rule  that  if  a  wound  continues  dry,  and  not  ill-smelling,  looks 
healthy,  etc.,  that  it  should  not  be  interfered  with,  but  if  pus  forms 
it  should  be  washed  clean  once  or  twice  a  day  with  clean,  warm 
or  cold  water,  a  syringe  or  piece  of  cheese  cloth  (do  not  use  a  sponge, 
the  cheese  cloth  can  be  burnt  after  once  using),  then  apply  once  daily 
a  solution  of  Lotio  Vita,  this  heals  without  leaving  a  scar. 

CONTROL  OF  BLEEDING  (Hemorrhage).  This  is  the  first 
thing  to  do  in  connection  with  wounds,  as  the  animal's  life  blood  may 
very  soon  flow  away,  if  the  bleeding  is  from  an  artery.  Bleeding  from 
veins  as  a  rule  is  seldom  dangerous,  unless  the  animal  is  in  an  already 
weakened  condition.  Sometimes  bleeding  is  arrested  by  the  contraction 
of  the  muscular  coat  of  the  artery;  an  artery  partially  cut  through  will 
continue  to  bleed,  when  if  entirely  cut  across  the  bleeding  will  often 
stop,  owing  to  the  fact  that  the  musclar  contraction  mentioned  becomes 
possible. 

Surgical  methods  of  stopping  bleeding  are  by  the  use  of  forceps 
performing  the  torsion  (twisting),  in  this  form  the  divided  end  of  the 
artery  is  seized  by  the  forceps  and  twisted  until  it  breaks  loose  from 
the  forceps ;  the  emasculator  and  ecraseur  are  instruments  partially 
working  on  this  principle,  they  crush  the  coats  of  the  vessels.  Tying, 
or  ligating,  as  it  is  termed,  silk,  twine,  catgut  or  other  m.aterials  are 
used  for  this  purpose;  styptics  are  occasionally  used,  they  cause  clot- 
ting of  the  blood  and  thus  stop  the  flov.^  mechanically,  for  such  purposes 
tincture  of  Iron,  or  Lotio  Vita  are  used;  the  hot  iron  (cautery)  is  also 
reliable  for  this  purpose,  in  docking  and  castrating  lambs,  and  some- 
times in  horses,  in  the  larger  animals  bleeding  may  occur  when  the  scab 
left  from  the  burning  falls  off,  usually  about  seven  days  after  the  opera- 
tion. The  use  of  dirty  materials,  such  as  cobwebs,  earth,  etc.,  is  dan- 
gerous, as  these  materials  often  contain  germs  of  various  diseases,  e.  g.. 
lockjaw  (tetanus).    IbU  water  (about  110°  F.)  or  ice  cold  water  will 


RURAL  VETERIXARY  SECRETS  183 


also  stop  bleeding,  warm  water  encourages  it.  The  hands  should  be 
cleaned  and  dipped  frequently  in  the  antiseptic  solution  when  dressing 
a  wound.  Stitches  are  not  used  as  frequently  in  wounds  of  animals, 
the  powerful  muscular  contraction  tends  to  tear  them  out ;  in  cases 
of  severe  wounds  the  veterinarian  should  be  called.  The  use  of  such 
irritants :  Acids,  salt,  turpentine,  etc.,  serve  no  useful  purpose  on  a  fresh 
wound  when  compared  with  the  pain  caused,  such  materials  really 
tend  to  hinder  and  thus  prevent  rapid  healing;  their  use  is  also  liable 
to  result  in  permanent  scars  or  blemishes.  A  solution  of  Lotio  \^ita  is 
most  satisfactory  in  these  cases.    It  leaves  no  scar  and  heals  quickly. 

Another  class  of  wounds  to  deal  with  are  those  known  as  frac- 
tures (breaks).  They  occur  in  hard  structures,  such  as  bone,  differ- 
ing from  those  already  spoken  of,  which  are  of  soft  tissues. 

FRACTURES  require  expert  dressing  and  the  application  of 
bandages  and  splints  in  the  larger  animals;  in  calves,  lambs,  pigs  and 
poultry  the  stockman  can  with  little  trouble  bind  up  the  broken  part  and 
save  loss.  Fractures  are  of  various  kinds  and  vary  greatly  in  their 
seriousness ;  generally  speaking,  if  the  ends  of  the  bones  extend  through 
the  skin,  the  case  is  not  worth  bothering  with.  Fractures  may  be  straight 
across  a  bone,  on  the  slant  (obliquely),  or  lengthwise;  if  the  bone  is 
broken  without  external  wound,  it  is  termed  a  simple  fracture;  if  the 
l^roken  ends  do  communicate  with  an  external  wound  we  have  a  com- 
pound fractm-e;  if  the  bone  is  broken  into  small  pieces  the  fracture  is 
known  as  comminuted;  greenstick  fractures  occur  in  young  animals 
and  resemble  the  break  in  a  green  stick,  not  a  clean,  sharp  break,  hence 
the  term. 

UNION  OF  FRACTURES  (broken  bones)  takes  place  some- 
what as  follows :  During  the  first  3  days  inflammation  and  exudation 
is  going  on,  from  then  to  the  twelfth  day  soft  material  is  thrown  out 
around  the  broken  ends,  and  if  the  bone  is  hollow  also  in  the  hollow 
space;  by  the  end  of  a  month,  if  the  ends  have  not  been  disturbed,  the 
soft  material  mentioned  is  changed  into  bone  (being  known  as  the  pro- 
visional callus)  ;  following  this  stage,  material  forms  between  the 
broken  ends,  being  later  converted  into  bone,  which  process  takes  about 
two  months,  thus  completely  uniting  the  broken  parts ;  this  material 
forms  what  is  known  as  the  definite  callus.  If  occasional  movement 
of  the  ends  occur  during  this  stage,  complete  union  is  not  possible,  and 
in  such  cases  the  material  thrown  out  instead  of  becoming  bone,  takes 
on  a  gristly  formation.  The  absorption  of  more  or  less  of  the  excess 
of  callus  follows,  usually  taking  several  months  or  longer  to  be  per- 
formed, before  this  occurs  the  point  of  union  is  shown  by  an  enlarge- 
ment.   Briefly  the  treatment  of  fractures  consists  in  bringing  the  broken 


184  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


parts  together,  securing  them  in  that  position  by  spHnts  and  bandages, 
usually  left  on  six  to  seven  weeks,  drainage  and  antiseptic  treatment 
of  the  fracture  if  a  compound,  entire  rest  of  the  patient  for  at  least 
three  months  in  a  well-bedded  (short  material,  such  as  cut  straw,  shav- 
ings, sawdust,  being  used)  box.  Give  good,  nutritious,  laxative  food 
and  plenty  of  green  grass,  if  available. 

Fractures  may  be  detected  by  the  presence  of  sudden,  severe  lame- 
ness, deformity  of  the  part,  which  can  be  moved  in  unnatural  directions, 
great  pain,  fever,  and  the  grating  (crepitus)  of  the  ends  of  the  bones 
together.  Fracture  of  the  tibia  (bone  of  the  lower  thigh)  sometimes 
occurs  without  displacement,  being  held  in  place  by  the  strong  perios- 
teum. Fractures  in  old  horses  are  always  dangerous.  In  younger 
horses  there  is  possibility  of  repair,  if  given  proper  treatment  and  nurs- 
ing. Fractures  of  the  hind  legs  are  more  serious  than  those  of  the  fore ; 
in  the  former,  if  above  the  hock,  unless  in  very  young  animals,  are 
usually  not  worth  treating.  Surgical  operations  are  better  avoided  if 
possible  during  fly  time  or  in  animals  far  advanced  in  pregnancy. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

Diseases  Common  to  Swine  and  Sheep 

HOG  CHOLERA 


The  above  cut  shows  how  hog  cholera  makes  its  first  appearance  in  a  herd. 
Notice  the  emaciated  condition  of  the  small  shote  below. 


Hog  Cholera  is  an  acute  febrile  disease.  So  far  as  is  known, 
affects  only  hogs,  and  is  characterized  by  extreme  contagiousness  and 
a  very  high  death  rate.  We  have  two  forms,  i.  e.,  the  acute  and  the 
chronic.  That  is  because  the  disease  in  some  cases  is  sudden  in  its  at- 
tack and  rapid  in  its  course,  while  in  others  it  lingers  for  weeks  or 
months  before  death  or  recovery.  The  causative  agent  is  the  same  in 
both,  the  difference  being  due  to  the  variation  in  virulence  of  the  germs 
and  the  resisting  power  of  the  hogs. 

While  the  specific  cause  of  hog  cholera  is  the  minute  organism, 
there  are  many  factors  which  may  render  a  herd  more  susceptible  to 
the  disease;  in  general  anything  which  tends  to  lower  the  vitality  of 
the  animal  may  be  regarded  as  a  predisposing  cause.  The  germ  is 
always  present  in  the  bodies  of  sick  hogs  and  is  thrown  off  in  the  excre- 
tions, hence  the  most  dangerous  factor  in  spreading  hog  cholera  is  the 


186  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


sick  hog;  but  an  agency  which  might  serve  to  carry  a  particle  of  dirt 
from  infected  yards  may  be  the  means  of  starting  an  outbreak  of  the 
disease. 


SYMPTOMS 

In  the  acute  type  the  symptoms  are  chiefly  sluggishness,  a  disin- 
clination to  move,  weakness,  loss  of  appetite,  high  fever,  inflammation 
of  the  eyes  and  gumming  of  the  lids ;  there  may  be  diarrhea,  red  or 
purplish  blotches  may  be  seen  on  the  skin,  especially  on  the  abdomen, 
inside  the  thighs,  and  around  the  ears  and  neck.  In  this  form  it  usually 
runs  a  rapid  course  and  the  hog  gets  greatly  emaciated.  In  fact,  in 
acute  outbreaks  the  hogs  may  die  after  being  sick  only  a  few  days. 

In  the  chronic  type  of  the  disease  the  symptoms  are  much  the  same 
as  in  the  acute.  The  hog  is  sluggish,  disinclined  to  move  when  dis- 
turbed, and  coughing  is  usually  heard  when  they  are  disturbed.  They 
eat  very  little,  lose  flesh  rapidly  and  later  become  emaciated  and  weak, 
so  that  "they  stagger  or  walk  with  an  uncertain  gait.  The  hind  legs  par- 
ticularly appear  to  be  very  weak.  The  eyes  are  inflamed  and  the  lids 
gummed  together.  After  a  few  days  there  is  apt  to  be  profuse  diarrhea. 
The  hog  usually  lingers  along  for  weeks,  sometimes  months,  but  finally 
dies. 


PREVENTION  AND  TREATMENT 

It  has  been  shown  that  in  a  vast  majority  of  cases  the  germ  is 
transported  mechanically  in  the  bodies  of  sick  hogs  and  on  the  feet  of 
men  or  animals,  including  birds.  It  follows  that  the  chances  of  anout- 
break  of  hog  cholera  will  be  greatly  lessened  if  a  herd  is  protected  from 
these  carriers  of  infection.  Hog  lots  should  not  be  located  near  public 
roads,  if  this  can  be  avoided  and  all  newly  purchased  stock  should  be 
kept  separate  for  at  least  thirty  days.  It  is  well  to  occasionally  scatter 
slacked  lime  about  the  lots  and  to  wash  and  disinfect  the  troughs  with 
a  compound  solution  of  Cresol,  one  part  to  thirty  parts  of  water.  Hogs 
once  affected'are  not  very  satisfactory  or  profitable,  as  they  usually 
don't  amount  to  much  after  recovery.  If  cholera  has  broken  out  in 
your  neighborhood,  it  is  well  to  guard  against  a  possible  contagion  or 
infection  by  vaccinating  all  your  hogs,  which  will  render  them  immune 
from  the  deadly  malady. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  187 


INDIGESTION  AND  CONSTIPATION  IN  PIGS 

This  is  due  to  errors  in  diet  and  lack  of  exercise.  In  such  cases 
five  grains  of  calomel  in  a  piece  of  fat  pork  given  to  a  pig  will  tend  to 
overcome  the  trouble.  A  laxative  of  raw  linseed  oil  or  Bovolax  in 
milk  are  also  useful,  the  cause  must  be  removed.  In  this  disease  the 
pigs  stagger  around,  refuse  food,  perhaps  vomit,  and  may  show  signs 
of  pain. 

THUMPS  IN  PIGS 

Thumps  is  a  disease  mainly  due  to  overfeeding  and  is  often  a 
serious  trouble  with  the  young  pigs,  the  cause  being  known,  the  treat- 
ment will  be  to  reduce  the  feed  and  give  the  sow  or  pigs  a  dose  of 
physic,  raw  linseed  oil  or  Bovolax,  and  plenty  of  exercise. 

REMOVAL  OF  THE  BOAR'S  TUSKS 

The  removal  of  the  tusks  is  easily  accomplished  by  the  stockman, 
and  renders  the  animal  less  dangerous  to  manage.  Snub  to  a  post,  by 
means  of  a  strong  rope,  one  end  of  which  is  noosed  and  applied  over 
the  upper  jaw  of  the  pig.  Take  a  pair  of  strong  pinchers,  apply  over 
the  tusk  close  to  the  gum,  close  the  pinchers  tightly  and  give  a  sharp 
tap  or  two  with  a  hammer  to  the  exposed  jaw  of  the  pinchers.  The 
tusk  will  be  broken  off  easily  and  without  hurt  to  the  boar. 

PARALYSIS 

Paralysis  of  hind  limbs  in  hogs  is  quite  common,  especially  in 
shotes  fed  excessively  of  corn,  while  in  the  growing  stage,  from  three 
to  nine  months  of  age. 

This  disease  is  better  prevented  than  cured.  Growing  pigs  should 
not  have  access  to  corn  at  liberty  in  common  v/ith  the  hogs  intended 
for  fattening.  Feed  more  skimmed  milk,  alfalfa,  green  clover  or 
roots,  if  possible.  This  will  develop  more  bone  and  muscle  and 
build  up  a  stronger  constitution. 

TREATMENT 

Keep  the  patient  in  a  dry,  well  ventilated  stall.  Give  a  tablespoon- 
ful  of  Bovolax  dissolved  in  a  half  pint  of  warm  water.  Repeat  every 
six  hours  until  the  bowels  are  laxed  freely.  Rub  the  back  from  its 
middle  to  the  tail  twice  daily  with  Elk's  Electric  Cream,  morning 
and  night,  until  relieved. 


188  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


CANKER  SORE  MOUTH  OF  YOUNG  PIGS 

Canker  sore  is  a  very  serious  disease,  occurring  from  the  time  of 
birth  until  a  few  weeks  old,  and  unless  attended  to  is  either  invariably 
fatal  or  stunts  the  pig's  growth  permanently.  The  disease  will  attack 
litter  after  litter  and  would  thus  seem  to  be  contagious  in  its  nature. 
Sore  mouth,  swellings  of  the  jaw  on  which  are  light  brown  scabs,  which 
later  show  deep  cracks  are  seen.  The  scabs  and  cracks  are  found  on 
the  snout,  extending  over  the  head  and  even  to  the  body  and  limbs.  In 
some  cases  an  ulcer  v^ill  form  at  the  end  of  the  snout  and  eat  away 
part  of  the  nose ;  in  other  cases  the  ears  may  become  affected  and  drop 
off.  Dullness,  loss  of  power  in  the  hind  limbs,  and  a  tendency  to  walk 
on  the  fetlocks,  disinclination  to  move  and  humping  the  back  are  fre- 
quent symptoms.  If  made  to  walk  will  squeal  as  if  in  pain ;  pigs  refrain 
from  suckling. 


TREATMENT 

The  treatment  is  simple  and  effective  if  thoroughly  done.  The 
young  pigs  should  first  be  attended  to  by  dipping  in  over  the  head,  in 
either  of  the  following  solutions,  care  being  taken  not  to  hold  them  too 
long  under  water  and  thus  drown  them : 

A.  Permanganate  of  Potash — 1  ounce. 
Water — 1/2  gallon. 

This  solution  is  practically  non-poisonous  and  may  be  used  fear- 
lessly. 

B.  Creolin — 1  ounce. 
Water — 3^  gallon. 

The  treatment  should  be  given  three  times  at  intervals  of  two  or 
three  days.  Remove  the  dirt  from  the  snouts  of  the  pigs  as  much  as 
possible,  so  as  to  economize  in  the  use  of  the  drugs.  The  sow's  udder 
should  be  washed,  a  few  times  with  one  of  the  solutions.  Should  ulcers 
form  as  described,  touch  them  with  a  piece  of  silver  nitrate  or  apply 
a  little  butter  of  antimony,  with  a  small  swab.  Disinfect  the  far- 
rowing pens  with  hot  carbolic  lime  wash.  This  trouble  is  entirely 
different  than  that  caused  by  the  tushes  of  the  young  pigs,  with 
which  it  is  confused  by  so  many  pig  breeders  and  farmers.  A  dose 
of  raw  linseed  oil  or  Bovolax  will  be  of  benefit  to  give  the  sow. 


BUBAL  VETEBINABY  SEC  BETS  189 


RHEUMATISM  IN  PIGS 

Rheumatism  is  common  in  damp  stables,  may  be  due  to  pigs  bur- 
rowing in  hot  manure  in  winter  time  and  then  becoming  exposed  to  the 
cold  weather.  Removal  of  the  causes,  a  mild  physic  and  five  grains  of 
salol  in  the  feed  twice  daily  will  help  overcome  the  trouble.  If  the 
joints  are  swollen  apply  Electric  Cream  morning  and  night. 


WHITE  SCOURS  OF  LAMBS 

(Infectious  Diarrhea) 

White  scours  is  an  acute,  infectious  disease  manifested  by 
profuse  diarrhea.  It  attacks  lambs  shortly  after  birth  or  within  two 
or  three  days,  frequently  affecting  all  the  newborn  in  the  flock.  It 
is  not  common  in  range  flocks. 

CAUSE 

A  varity  of  micro-organisms  has  been  found  associated  with  the 
disease,  but  the  most  common  of  them  is  the  Bacillus  colicommunis. 
Dirty  lambing  pens  or  ground  contaminated  with  the  virulent  or- 
ganisms soils  the  udders  of  the  ewe  and  the  organisms  are  taken  up 
by  the  lamb  in  suckling.  Cold  and  rain  weaken  the  young  lambs 
and  predispose  them  to  infection. 

SYMPTOMS 

Symptoms  appear  in  from  one  to  three  days  after  birth.  The 
lamb  stops  suckling,  is  depressed,  and  lies  down  much  of  the  time. 
The  feces  may  be  yellowish  or  grayish  white  and  may  be  tinged 
with  blood.  They  are  fetid  and  fluid.  Death  occurs  in  from  one  to 
several  days  after  symptoms  are  shown. 

White  scours  is  distinguished  from  simple  diarrhea  by  its  tend- 
ency to  affect  a  large  number  in  the  flock  at  the  same  time. 

TREATMENT 

Affected  lambs  should  be  isolated  and  given  2  teaspoonfuls  of 
castor  oil  and  an  internal  antiseptic,  such  as  salicylic  acid  in  doses 
of  one-third  teaspoonful  daily  for  several  days.  Anti-white-scours 
serum  may  be  injected  shortly  after  birth  as  a  preventive.  On  farms 
where  the  disease  has  already  occurred,  ewes  should  be  placed  be- 
fore lambing  in  clean,  disinfected  quarters. 


190  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

JOINT  ILL  OF  LAMBS 

(Navel  III,  Septic  Joint  Disease) 

Joint  ill  is  an  acute,  infectious  disease  of  newborn  lambs  which 
is  characterized  by  swelling  of  the  navel  and  joints  of  the  limbs. 

CAUSE 

Several  common  disease-producing  organisms  may  cause  joint 
ill.  Infection  occurs  principally  before  the  stump  dries,  by  way  of 
the  vein  of  the  torn  navel  cord,  which  has  become  soiled  by  dirt  or 
other  material  harboring  the  pathogenic  organisms. 

SYMPTOMS 

Signs  of  the  disease  usually  occur  within  48  hours  after  birth. 
The  navel  cord  swells,  contains  a  purulent  secretion,  and  dries 
slowly.  The  animal  is  dull,  lies  down  a  good  deal,  and  loses  the 
desire  to  suck.  There  is  stiffness  and  swelling  of  the  hocks,  stifle 
joints,  or  knees.  A  purulent  secretion  may  escape  from  an  opened 
joint.    There  may  be  a  general  septic  condition. 

TREATMENT 

Not  much  can  be  done  in  the  case  of  badly  affected  animals 
other  than  to  open  and  disinfect  the  navel  stump  and  to  nourish  the 
animal  artificially  with  milk.     Recovery  is  rarely  complete. 

To  prevent  the  disease  place  the  pregnant  ewes,  shortly  before 
lambing,  in  clean,  disinfected  quarters  containing  clean,  fresh  straw. 
Smear  the  navel  cord  of  the  newborn  lamb  with  Elk's  Absorbing 
Ointment  as  soon  after  birth  as  possible  and  repeat  daily  for  two 
or  three  days.  Tying  the  navel  cord  close  to  the  navel  is  also  ad- 
visable. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  191 


Diseases  Common  to  Sheep 

JAUNDICE  (Icterus,  Yellows) 

Jaundice  is  a  common  disease  of  sheep,  but  is  not  often  noticed 
except  at  slaughter.  It  is  characterized  by  the  yellowish  appearance 
of  the  tissues  of  the  body. 


CAUSE 

Jaundice  results  from  various  affections  of  the  liver,  flukes  being 
a  common  cause.  When  the  bile  does  not  flow  freely  into  the  intestine 
the  coloring  matter  is  absorbed  into  the  blood,  and  a  yellowish  color- 
ation of  the  body  results. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  membranes  of  the  mouth,  nostrils  and  eye  are  yellowish.  The 
urine  is  stained  varying  shades  of  yellow.  On  postmortein  the  carcass 
shows  a  yellow  discoloration  which  often  disappears  after  a  day  or  two. 

TREATxMENT 

A  purgative,  such  as  Bovolax,  may  be  given,  likewise  opportunity 
for  exercise. 


192  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

ICTEROHEMATURIA 
(Red  Water,  Malarial  Fever,  Jaundice) 

Icterohematuria  is  a  highly  fatal,  febrile  disease  which  is  apparent- 
ly restricted  to  limited  areas.  It  has  been  reported  from  certain  val- 
leys in  Montana  and  from  Colorado. 

CAUSE 

In  Europe  the  disease  has  been  attributed  to  a  blood  parasite  of 
microscopic  size.  In  this  country  its  cause  has  not  been  definitely  es- 
tablished. 

SYMPTOMS 

Severe  cases  are  characterized  by  weakness;  reddish  or  bloody 
urine ;  yellowish  coloration  of  the  membranes  of  the  eye  and  nostrils ; 
swelling  of  the  head,  ears,  or  neck;  stupor,  unconsciousness,  and  some- 
times convulsions  followed  by  death  in  from  two  to  five  days  after 
symptoms  are  noticed.  In  mild  cases  no  marked  symptoms  may  be 
observed,  but  yellowish  discoloration  of  the  body  tissues  is  seen  on 
slaughter. 

POST-MORTEM   APPEARANCE 

The  skin  and  fat  are  yellowish  in  color,  and  the  muscles  slightly 
yellowish.  The  blood  is  pale,  the  liver  is  yellowish  and  easily  crum- 
bled, and  the  gall  bladder  is  filled  with  yellowish-green  or  greenish- 
black  bile.  Kidneys  are  enlarged,  soft,  and  contain  a  bloody  or  dark- 
colored  urine.  The  bladder  contains  bloody  or  chocolate-colored  urine. 
Yellowish  or  yellowish-green  gelatinous  liquid  is  found  beneath  the 
skin,  between  the  muscles,  or  in  the  body  cavities. 

TREATMENT 

Quinine,  one-third  teaspoonful  twice  dail}-,  is  recommended,  also 
Bovolax,  from  one  to  three  ounces.  The  disease  is  preventive  by  keep- 
ing sheep  away  from  pastures  where  the  condition  exists. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  193 


PERITONITIS 

Peritonitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  membi-ane  lining  the  belly 
ca\  itv  and  covering  the  abdominal  organs. 


CAUSE 

It  is  seen  generally  after  castration  of  lambs  or  following  inflam- 
mation of  the  womb  in  ewes.    It  results  from  infection. 


SYMPTOxMS 

The  principal  symptoms  are  evidences  of  abdominal  pain.  There 
is  plaintive  bleating,  grinding  of  the  teeth,  and  the  animal  frequently 
draws  the  head  around  toward  the  flank.  The  temperature  rises.  The 
hind  legs  may  be  dragged  stiffly  and  the  belly  may  be  tucked  up.  Fluid 
ma\-  be  felt  in  the  bellv. 


TREATMENT 

The  castration  wound  should  be  washed  with  antiseptics.     Stimu- 
lating liniments  or  mustard  water  may  be  applied  to  the  abdomen. 


ASCITES  (Abdominal  Dropsy,  Water  Belly) 

The  condition  known  as  ascites  represents  an  accumulation  of  fluid 
in  the  bellv. 


CAUSE 

Ascites  may  be  present  in  several  general  diseases,  and  in  perito- 
nitis, internal  parasitic  infestation,  or  in  debilitated  animals,  especially 
during  pregnancy. 


SYMPTOMS 

Gradual  enlargement  or  bulging  of  the  belly  is  a  common  symptom. 
Manipulation  of  the  belly  will  cause  the  fluid  to  fluctuate  or  move 
about.  There  is  a  dull  sound  on  thunij^ing  the  abdomen.  Affected 
ewes  may  give  birth  to  water-bellied  lambs. 


194  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


TREATMENT 

The  ailment  which  causes  the  condition  should  be  treated.  Give 
one-half  teaspoonful  of  potassium  iodid  in  a  little  water  as  a  drench. 
The  belly  may  be  tapped  and  the  fluid  drawn  oflf. 


ANEMIA   (Hydremia,  Chlorosis) 

Anemia  is  a  condition  in  which  the  blood  is  deficient  in  either 
quality  or  quantity. 


CAUSE 

It  is  most  frequently  due  to  insufficient  feed  or  to  feed  deficient 
in  proteins  and  mineral  substances,  such  as  iron.  It  occurs  often  in 
animals  grazing  on  marshy  pastures.  Ewes  suckling  lambs  become 
anemic  when  the  quantity  or  quality  of  feed  is  inadequate  for  their 
needs.    Anemia  is  also  associated  with  parasites. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  visible  membranes  of  the  eye,  nose  and  mouth  are  pale.  There 
is  dullness,  weakness,  and  emaciation.  A  dropsical  swelling  forms 
under  the  lower  jaw  and  may  extend  down  the  neck  to  the  chest.  The 
belly  becomes  dropsical.  The  wool  is  lusterless,  harsh,  or  brittle,  and 
falls  off  in  patches.  Diarrhea  is  present  in  the  late  stages.  The  animal 
may  die  from  loss  of  strength  after  several  weeks,  or  the  disease  may 
continue  for  months. 


TREATMENT 

Change  of  food  or  pasture  is  essential.  A  sufficient  quantity  of 
nutritious  feed  should  be  given;  also  administer  iron  sulphate  (cop- 
peras) in  from  8  to  15  grain  doses  daily.  Arsenic  in  the  form  of 
Fowler's  solution  in  from  one-quarter  to  1  teaspoonful  daily  and  vege- 
table tonics,  such  as  gentian  or  ginger,  in  from  1  to  2  teaspoonful 
doses  are  of  value  in  aiding  rapid  recover}-. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  195 


RICKETS   (Rachitis,  Leg  Weakness) 

Rickets  is  a  disease  of  lambs  in  which  the  bones  are  soft  and 
flexible  from  retarded  hardening  due  to  lack  of  proper  mineral  salt. 


CAUSE 

Failure  of  the  bones  to  receive  enough  mineral  salts,  especially 
lime,  may  be  due  to  faulty  processes  in  the  body,  but  is  usually  due  to 
lack  of  lime  salts  in  the  feed  and  to  lack  of  exercise.  Suckling  lambs 
may  become  affected  if  the  mothers  do  not  get  feed  enough,  or  if  the 
feed  is  low  in  lime  content.  Some  soils  are  deficient  in  lime,  and  feed 
grown  on  them  is  also  deficient.  Lambs  closely  confined,  even  if  prop- 
erly fed,  may  develop  rickets. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  symptoms  are  most  apparent  in  the  long  bones  of  the  legs. 
Nodular  enlargements  may  be  observed  on  the  ends  or  sides  of  the 
bones,  which  are  soft  and  porous.  They  are  bent  or  bowed  outward, 
inward,  or  backward.  The  spine  may  be  curved  also.  Stiffness  or 
lameness  is  present.  The  animal  does  not  like  to  move  about,  lies 
down  a  good  deal,  or  crawls  about  and  kneels  when  eating.  The  sec- 
ond set  of  teeth  is  slow  in  coming.  The  licking  or  nibbling  of  walls 
is  observed,  and  there  is  a  desire  for  filth  and  for  foul  water. 


TREATMENT 

Lambs  should  not  be  penned  closely,  but  should  be  allowed  plenty 
of  room  for  exercise.  They  should  also  have  nutritious  feed,  grown 
on  good  soil.  Lambs  should  be  given  new  pasture  or  plenty  of  green 
feed,  timothy  hay,  clover,  alfalfa,  pea  hay,  oats,  linseed  cake,  or  other 
feeds  rich  in  lime  and  phosphates.  Dams  of  nurslings  should  be  well 
fed  on  such  feeds.  Chalk  (calcium  carbonate)  may  be  given  to  ewes 
with  suckling  lambs,  or  to  lambs,  in  doses  from  one-half  to  2  teaspoon- 
fuls  daily,  or  sodium  phosphate  may  be  alternated  with  the  chalk. 


196  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETIS 


GOITER  (Big  Neck,  WooUess  Lambs) 

Goiter  is  characterized  by  a  swelling  of  the  thyroid,  which  is 
situated  in  the  throat  just  below  the  lower  jaw.  It  is  quite  common  in 
sheep  in  various  regions.  Lambs  from  affected  flocks  show  absence 
of  wool  and  enlargement  of  the  throat.  Many  are  born  dead,  and 
some  die  shortly  after  birth.     Those  that  live  are  often  unthrifty. 


CAUSE 

The  disease  is  caused  by  lack  of  iodin  in  the  thyroid  gland.  This 
appears  to  be  due  to  a  scarcity  of  iodin  in  the  vegetation  and  water  in 
certain  districts.  Where  the  pregnant  ewe  can  not  get  iodin  enough 
the  normal  growth  of  the  fetus  is  arrested. 


TREATMENT 

In  Hocks  where  the  disease  exists  pregnant  ewes  should  be  given 
potassium  iodid  daily  for  three  months  before  lambing.  One-half  ounce 
of  potassium  iodid  mixed  with  one-half  ounce  of  milk  sugar  and  dis- 
solved in  the  drinking  water  dailv  is  sufficient  for  100  ewes. 


RHEUMATISM 

CAUSE 

Rheumatism  does  not  occur  so  often  as  a  separate  affection  as 
formerly  believed.  Symptoms  of  soreness,  lameness,  or  stiffness  as- 
sociated with  various  internal  diseases  are  popularly  termed  rheuma- 
tism. Rhetimatism,  independent  of  other  ailments,  is  generally  due 
to  cold  drafts  and  dampness.  It  affects  the  muscles  and  to  a  less  ex- 
tent the  ioints.     Young  animals  are  usuallv  affected. 


TREATMENT 

I'roteclion  against  the  causes,  with  application  of  National  Elec- 
tric Cream  to  the  affected  parts,  will  help  restore  the  animal  to  health. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  197 


WOOL  EATING 

CAUSE 

Wool  eating  is  observed  principally  in  winter,  when  sheep  are 
confined  to  close  quarters.  It  is  often  a  bad  habit,  which,  when  started 
by  one  or  more  animals,  is  imitated  by  others.  In  other  cases  lack  of 
elements  in  the  feed  may  cause  the  habit. 


SYMPTOMS 

Lambs  begin  by  gnawing  the  wool  of  their  mothers,  usually  on 
the  thighs  and  abdomen.  Older  sheep  may  select  one  animal  and  eat 
all  its  wool  before  turning  to  another.  Wool  eating  may  become  gen- 
eral in  the  flock.  A  few  lambs  may  become  anemic,  show  digestive 
disturbance,  or  even  die  as  the  result  of  the  formation  of  wool  balls 
in  a  compartment  of  the  stomach  and  the  subsequent  plugging  of  the 
intestine. 

TREATMENT 

Wool  eaters  and  their  victims  should  be  remo\ed  from  the  flock. 
Animals  should  be  turned  out  for  exercise,  and  nutritious  feed  should 
be  provided. 


198  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


BIGHEAD 

Bighead  is  characterized  by  a  sudden  swelling  of  the  head  and 
ears.  The  affection  is  not  \ery  widely  distributed.  It  is  found  in  Utah 
and  the  surrounding  States,  and  greatest  losses  occurring  in  southern 
and  central  Utah,  southern  Idaho,  eastern  Nevada,  and  western  and 
southern  Wyoming.  It  is  also  seen  occasionally  in  sheep  brought  as 
feeders  from  those  regions  into  the  Middle  Western  States.  In  such 
cases  the  disease  occurs  shortly  after  the  arrival  of  the  animal  early 
in  the  autumn  if  the  heat  is  excessive. 


CAUSE 

The  definite  cause  of  bighead  is  not  known,  though  climatic  con- 
ditions have  much  to  do  with  its  appearance.  Sheep  are  usually  af- 
fected during  the  early  spring  and  early  summer  while  being  driven 
from  the  winter  to  the  summer  ranges,  more  commonly  before  shear- 
ing. Bighead  appears  to  be  most  prevalent  after  a  cold  or  stormy 
night,  when  the  day  following  turns  hot  and  the  animals  are  driven 
fast  in  the  hot  sun,  and  when  they  are  compelled  to  inhale  a  consider- 
able quantity  of  alkali  dust.  It  affects  males  and  females  alike,  though 
it  is  seldom  seen  in  young  lambs.  This  condition  affects  sheep  in  much 
the  same  way  as  man  is  aff'ected  by  poison  ivy.  The  disease  is  not 
transmissible  from  one  sheep  to  another  or  to  other  animals.  All  ex- 
periments with  transfusion  of  blood  or  injection  of  serum  from  affect- 
ed sheep  to  healthy  ones  were  without  results. 

The  disease  of  sheep  in  luirope,  known  as  fagopyrism  or  buck- 
wheat poisoning,  is  similar  to  bighead.  In  one  experiment  in  America 
bighead  was  produced  by  feeding  buckwheat  and  exposing  the  animals 
to  the  sun.  In  another  experiment  the  results  were  negative.  On  the 
desert  and  on  different  parts  of  the  trail  sheep  eat  a  number  of  plants 
that  belong  to  the  buckwheat  family,  and  it  is  possible  that  the  trouble 
mav  come  from  that  scource. 


SYMPTOMS 

The  first  noticeable  symptom  is  that  the  animal  begins  to  tlirow 
it>  head  up  and  sidewise  in  a  jerking  manner.  It  is  greatly  irritated 
and  shakes  the  head  and  tries  to  rub  it.  The  animal  walks  aimlessly- 
through  the  flock,  often  stamping  its  feet  on  the  ground,  and  seldom 
standing  still  very  long.  The  eyesight  is  affected,  as  the  animal  fol- 
lows n  direct  line,  sometimes  runninij  into  other  sheep  and  other  oh- 


RURAL  VETERINARY  HECRET^ 


199 


^1 

rffe^ 

^P 

■HhI 

■'■:       .  r^ 

Bighead  of  sheep,  showing  swelling  of  eyelid,  face  and  ear  (ear  had  been 

cropped).     Scabs  on  ear,  eyelid,  and  nose  due  to  drying  of  exuded 

scrum.     Catarrhal,  stringy  discharge  hangs  from  nose. 

(After  Buckley). 


200  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


jects  in  its  path.  In  that  condition  some  of  the  sheep  wander  away 
from  the  flock  and  are  lost,  either  dying  as  a  result  of  exhaustion  and 
starvation  or  becoming  a  prey  to  wild  animals. 

If  the  animal  is  watched  after  the  jerking  of  the  head  begins, 
one  can  see  the  ears  turn  red  and  enlarge.  At  about  the  same  time 
the  cheeks  show  congested  appearance.  Ears  and  cheeks  continue 
to  enlarge  to  enormous  proportions,  the  ears  drooping  as  a  result 
of  their  weight.  After  the  swellings  are  about  complete,  small 
drops  of  serum  of  a  light-yellow  color  begin  to  exude  from  them. 
The  entire  face  becomes  so  swollen  as  to  close  the  eyes,  and  in  some 
cases  the  internal  pressure  of  the  serum  forces  the  eyeballs  out  of 
their  sockets.  Fever  is  always  present  and  shows  itself  early,  the 
temperature  ranging  from  104°  to  107°  F.  In  the  severe  forms  this 
occurs  in  from  30  minutes  to  one  hour.  The  vision  being  obstructed, 
the  animal  can  not  see  its  feed  and  the  lips,  checks  and  tongue  are 
so  badly  congested  that  the  eating  is  impossible.  In  many  cases 
the  tongue  fills  the  mouth  entirely.  In  some  cases  there  is  a  dis- 
turbance of  the  breatliing  due  to  pressure  on  the  trachea  and  inflam- 
mation of  the  air  passages.  To  some  extent  this  may  be  due  to 
excitement,  and  when  in  that  condition  the  sheep,  if  allowed  to,  will 
continue  to  chase  around  until  completely  exhausted  and  will  then 
lie  down,  usually  never  to  rise.  Others  that  are  only  slightly 
affected  may  recover.  The  skin  often  cracks  or  peels  off  the  sw^elled 
areas  and  many  animals  lose  the  wool  over  the  entire  body.  Sheep 
(mce  affected  are  never  as  good  as  formerly,  as  they  become  un- 
thrifty.    Many  of  the  ewes  that  carry  lambs  lose  them. 


POSTMORTEM    APPEARANCE 

Sheep  killed  during  the  early  stages  of  the  disease  show 
petechiae  (purplish  spots)  in  the  nostrils  and  all  tissues  of  the  head, 
trachea  and  lungs.  There  is  an  accumulation  of  serous  or  jellylike 
fluid  around  the  eyes,  in  the  cheeks,  between  the  ears,  below  the 
jaws,  and  under  the  muc(nis  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  tongue. 

When  sheep  die  as  a  result  of  this  condition,  the  jelly-like 
material  is  found  in  different  parts  (jf  the  body  under  the  mucous 
and  serous  membranes  and  in  some  of  the  muscles.  There  are  often 
small  hemorrhagic  spots  along  the  intestinal  tract  and  around  the 
kidneys.  There  is  a  congestion  and  thickening  of  the  walls  of  the 
lymphatics,  with  a  swelling  of  the  lymph  glands.  The  blood  circu- 
lation of  the  head  in  many  instances  is  nearly  shut  off'  by  the  pres- 
sure of  the  swolKn   Cdndition.     The  braiti  anfl   s])inal   cord   of  the 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  201 


dead  animal  contain  an  excessive  amount  of  serum.     The  muscle 
tissue  appears  normal  in  most  parts  of  the  body  except  the  head. 

TREATMENT 

Different  medicinal  substances  were  experimented  with  on 
afifected  sheep  with  the  view  of  finding  some  specific  that  might 
overcome  the  trouble.  The  substances  that  do  the  animals  most 
good  are  emollients,  such  as  vaseline  or  olive  oil,  applied  to  the 
head.  Whenever  afifected  sheep  have  absolute  rest  and  some  pro- 
tection from  the  direct  rays  of  the  sun  and  their  heads  are  smeared 
with  emollients  they  recover  in  a  short  time,  while  those  that  are 
not  treated  in  this  manner  but  are  driven  indefinitely  without  these 
precautions,  become  severely  afifected,  many  of  them  dying  as  a 
result. 

The  malady  is  prevented  by  handling  sheep  properly,  not  driv- 
ing them  too  far  or  too  fast  on  the  trail  during  the  heat,  especially 
before  shearing  in  the  spring. 

Sheepmen  should  not  become  excited  when  bighead  develops 
in  their  flocks  and  cause  the  herders  to  rush  the  sheep  over  the 
ground,  as  they  do  where  poisonous  plants  exist.  Keep  the  animals 
cool  so  far  as  possible,  and  many  great  losses  can  be  prevented. 


SORE  EYES 
(Conjunctivitis,  Ophthalmia,  the  Blinds) 

CAUSE 

Disorders  of  the  eye  may  arise  from  a  number  of  causes. 
Inflammation  may  follow  injuries,  or  inclusions  of  dust,  seeds,  pol- 
len, etc.,  or  may  accompany  other  diseases,  such  as  catarrh.  At 
times  inflammation  of  the  eye  becomes  prevalent  in  a  particular 
district  or  region. 

SYMPTOMS 

The  eye  is  kept  closed,  especially  when  exposed  to  light.  Tears 
flow  freely.  At  first  the  discharge  is  watery,  but  later  it  may 
become  purulent.     The  eye  membranes  are  swollen  and  red.     The 


202  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


eyeball  may  become  clouded  or  milk  white,  and  in  bad  cases  it  may 
ulcerate  and  rupture.  Cataract  and  blindness  frequently  follow 
successive  attacks  of  ophthalmia. 


TREATMENT 

Any  foreign  matter  in  the  eye  should  be  removed.  The  eye 
should  be  washed  with  3  per  cent  boric-acid  solution,  or,  better 
still,  after  washing  the  eyes  with  lukewarm  water  place  several 
drops  of  15  per  cent  solution  of  argyrol  on  the  eyeball.  Treatment 
should  be  given  twice  a  day,  the  animal  being  kept  in  a  dark  place 
if  possible. 


STOMATITIS 
(Necrotic  Stomatitis,  Sore  Mouth  of  Lambs,  Thrush) 

Stomatitis  is  an  inflammation  of  the  mouth.  It  may  occur  in 
several  forms,  as  catarrhal,  aphthous,  necrotic  and  mycotic. 

CAUSE 

Catarrhal  stomatitis,  or  simple  redness  of  the  mouth,  is  due  to 
irritants  in  the  feed  or  to  irritating  mineral  or  poisonous  substances. 
Aphthous  and  necrotic  stomatitis  are  caused  by  micro-organisms. 
Mycotic  stomatitis  is  caused  by  fungi  or  molds. 

SYMPTOMS 

In  catarrhal  stomatitis  a  diffuse  of  the  redness  of  membranes 
covering  the  tongue,  cheeks,  and  hard  palate  is  observed.  In  the 
aphthous  form  patches  of  yelk)wish-gray  false  membranes,  made 
up  of  cast-off  fibrin  and  exudates,  are  found  on  the  tongue,  gums, 
and  at  other  points  in  the  mouth  and  throat.  In  the  necrotic  form 
small  ulcers  or  decayed  spots  are  present.  The  mycotic  form  also 
presents  ulcerated  areas. 

In  all  forms  suckling  or  the  taking  of  feed  is  painful.  Saliva 
dribbles  from  the  mouth.  A  disagreeable  odor  is  given  off.  Fre- 
quently the  animal  is  stiff"  in  the  limbs,  and  the  back  may  be  arched. 
There  is  jin  unthrifty  appearance  and  loss  of  flesh.     In  very  young 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  203 


lambs  the  disease  takes  a  rapid  and  fatal  course.     Older  animals 
generally  recover. 

TREATMENT 

Separate  the  sick  from  the  healthy.  Lambs  unable  to  suck 
should  receive  milk  artificially.  Older  animals  should  have  bran 
mashes,  ground  feed,  or  gruels.  The  mouth  should  be  swabbed  out 
daily  with  such  antiseptics  as  compound  solution  of  cresol,  carbolic 
acid,  or  permanganate  of  potash  in  2  per  cent  solution.  It  is  also 
beneficial  to  dissolve  2  tablespoonfuls  of  borax  in  each  pail  of  drink- 
ing water. 


CHOKING 

CAUSE 

Choking  occurs  as  the  result  of  the  lodging  of  a  piece  of  root 
or  dry,  coarse  feed  in  the  gullet. 


SYMPTOMS 

Difficult  breathing,  head  stretched  out,  attempts  to  swallow  or 
to  vomit,  stoppage  of  rumination,  and  bloating  suggest  choking. 
Feeling  along  the  gullet  will  reveal  the  obstruction. 


TREATMENT 

If  the  obstruction  is  near  the  mouth  it  may  be  fished  out  with 
the  hngers  or  an  instrument,  or  forced  up  by  outside  pressure.  If 
farther  down,  a  little  linseed  oil  may  be  given  and  the  material 
pushed  toward  the  paunch  by  means  of  a  rubber  tube  or  stout 
looped  wire.  In  obstinate  cases  immediate  slaughter  mav  be  advis- 
able. 


204  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

INDIGESTION 
(Impaction  of  Rumen,  Atony  of  Stomach,  Grass 

Staggers) 

CAUSE 

Indigestion  results  from  the  presence  of  otlier  diseases ;  from 
feeding  coarse,  fibrous,  indigestible  feed  with  little  green  feed ;  from 
spoiled  feed ;  or  from  overloading  the  stomach.  The  fourth  stomach 
of  lambs  may  become  impacted  with  curdled  milk. 

SYMPTOMS 

There  is  dullness,  loss  of  appetite  and  rumination,  bad-smelling 
eructation  with  passing  at  long  intervals  of  bad-smelling,  dry,  un- 
digested dung  in  small  quantities.  The  left  flank  may  be  distended 
and  feel  dOughy  to  the  touch. 

TREATMENT 

Give  purgatives,  such  as  Bovolax  in  from  2  to  v5  ounce  doses, 
or  castor  or  linseed  oil  from  3  to  6  ounces.  One-half  ounce  of  tur- 
pentine may  be  mixed  with  the  oil.  Work  up  the  paunch  with  the 
hands  over  the  left  flank.  When  the  animal  begins  to  eat  give  suc- 
culent green  feed  for  a  few  days. 


DIARRHEA   (Dysentery) 

CAUSE 

Common  diarrhea,  as  distinguished  from  white  scours  of  lambs 
and  from  diarrhea  associated  with  specific  disease,  is  due  to  disturb- 
ances in  the  digestive  system  from  irritants  in  the  feed,  change  to 
abundance  of  succulent  feed,  spoiled  feed,  exposure  after  shearing, 
or  to  the  presence  of  parasitic  worms  in  the  intestine. 

TREATMENT 

The  feed  sliould  be  examined  and  regulated,  .\dverse  condi- 
tions should  be  C(Mrected.     It  is  best  to  give  a  purgative,  such  as 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  205 


Bovolax,  4  ounces,  or  castor  or  linseed  oil,  4  ounces,  to  remove  the 
irritating  matter.  If  diarrhea  persists,  subnitrate  of  bismuth  may 
be  given  in  from  one-half  to  1  teaspoonful  doses. 


CONSTIPATION 


CAUSE 

Constipation  may  be  a  symptom  of  certain  stages  of  general 
diseases.  Simple  constipation  is  due  to  digestive  disturbances 
resulting  from  indigestible  dry  feed  with  insufficient  v^^ater,  wool 
balls,  especially  in  lambs,  or  lack  of  exercise  in  stalled  rams. 

SYMPTOMS 

The  animal  is  dull,  appetite  is  decreased,  the  mouth  is  dry,  and 
sometimes  colicky  pains  are  evident.  Attempts  are  made  to  defe- 
cate and  the  feces  are  hard  and  coated  with  mucus. 

TREATMENT 

Grown  sheep  should  be  gi^  en  4  ounces  Bovolax  in  a  quart  of 
water.  Lambs  should  be  given  a  smaller  quantity,  according  to 
size,  or  2  ounces  of  castor  or  linseed  oil.  Succulent  green  feed 
should  be  fed  for  several  days. 


RETENTION  OF  THE  MECONIUM 

Retention  of   the   meconium   is   observed   in   new-born   lambs 
which  fail  to  pass  the  dung  soon  after  birth. 

SYMPTOMS 

There  are  evidences  of  colicky  pains  as  a  result  of  intestinal 
irritation. 

TREATMENT 

Give  an  injection  of  linseed  oil  into  the  rectum  ;  also  a  teaspoon- 
ful of  castor  oil  by  the  mouth. 


206  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


PARALYSIS 

Paralysis,  is  a  loss  of  motion  or  sensation  in  a  part  of  the  body 
and  generally  depends  upon  brain  or  nerve  derangement.  Com- 
monly, however,  the  term  is  used  to  express  lack  of  movement, 
whether  due  to  absence  of  nerve  control,  to  extreme  weakness,  or 
to  disinclination  to  move  as  a  result  of  pain. 


CAUSE 

True  paralysis  in  the  sheep  is  present  in  the  late  stages  of 
rabies,  in  parturient  paralysis  or  milk  fever,  in  meningitis,  and  in 
gid.  Conditions  resembling  paralysis  are  found  in  a  number  of 
infectious  and  noninfectious  diseases. 


TREATMENT 

Treatment  depends  upon  the  cause  and  follows  the  lines  indi 
cated  for  the  diseases  with  which  it  is  associated. 


BLOODY   URINE    (Hematuria) 

CAUSE 

Reddish  urine  may  be  symptom  of  several  diseases,  such  as 
anthrax,  hemorrhagic  septicemia,  icterohematuria,  inflammation  of 
the  kidneys  or  bladders,  and  urinary  calculi  (stones).  It  may  also 
follow  the  eating  of  frozen  feed  or  poisonous  plants. 


TREATMENT 

The  condition  which  causes  a  reddening  oi  the  urine  should 
be  discovered,  if  possible,  and  treated. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  207 


DANDRUFF  (False  Scab,  Tallow  Scab) 

Whitish,  yellowish  or  brownish-yellow  greasy  scales  may  be 
observed  on  the  back,  shoulders,  breast,  or  neck.  The  scales  consist 
of  oily  secretion  and  cells  of  the  outer  layer  of  the  skin.  Itching  is 
absent,  but  the  animal  may  pull  wool  from  the  afifected  areas. 

CAUSE 

Frequently  no  cause  is  apparent,  but  animals  in  poor  condition 
or  suffering  from  other  ailments  are  most  often  afifected. 


TREATMENT 

The  disease  is  not  of  common  occurrence  and  is  of  small  impor- 
tance. Good  nourishment  and  care  of  the  skin  generally  correct  the 
disorder. 


BALDNESS   (Alopecia,  Falling  Out  of  the  Wool) 

Baldness  is  observed  as  a  symptom  or  as  a  result  of  several 
diseases,  namely,  scab,  blue  bag,  metritis,  eczema,  ringworm,  or 
dandruff.  Its  control  rests  upon  the  proper  treatment  of  the  disease 
from  which  it  results. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

Diseases  Common  to  Poultry 

ROUP 

Roup  is  a  contagious  disease  of  poultry  resembling  the  early  stages 
of  a  severe  cold,  the  discharge  being  ofifensive.  Isolate  all  afifected 
birds,  kill  or  use  anti-toxin.     Disinfect  the  hen  houses  thoroughly. 

The  following  will  aid  in  determining  what  makes  n  fowl  sick,  to- 
gether with  brief  notes  on  treatment : 

CHOLERA 

Cholera  is  the  result  of  overcrowding,  hlth,  impure  water  and  feed. 
Use  a  little  soda,  alum  or  carbolic  acid,  30  drops  to  one  quait  of  the 
drinking  water,  disinfect  the  runs  with  lime,  also  the  house. 

CANKER 

Canker  in  tlie  resuU  of  dampness  and  tilth.  Powder  mouth  and 
throat  with  burnt  alum,  disinfect  the  ((uarters. 

APOPLEXY 

Apoplexy  is  the  result  of  overfeeding  and  lack  ,of  exercise.  Give 
a  teaspoonful  of  Castor  Oil,  vegetable  diet,  cold  water  to  head. 

SOFT  SHELLED  EGGS 

Soft  shells  are  the  result  of  overfeeding  or  lack  of  lime  in  the  food. 
Give  oyster  shells,  cut  bone  and  a  vegetable  diet. 


210  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


LEG  WEAKNESS 

Leg"  weakness  is  the  result  of  in-breeding  and  overfeeding,  lack  of 
bone  forming  food  and  grit.  Give  one  grain  of  quinine  daily,  grit, 
vegetable  diet,  and  cut  bone. 


SORE  EYES  AND  PIP 

Damp  houses. 

BUMBLE  FOOT 

Bumble  foot  in  poultry  is  due  to  too  high  roosts,  causing  bruising 
of  the  feet  and  the  formation  of  an  abscess.  Bathe  in  hot  water,  lance 
and  let  out  the  pus,  and  remove  the  cause. 

DIARRHOEA 

Damp  houses,  filthy  runs  and  houses,  bad  feeding.  The  same 
treatment  as  for  cholera. 

CROP  BOUND 

Overfeeding  and  lack  of  grit.  Give  castor  oil  and  milk  and  knead 
carefully. 

Unless  your  poultry  are  valuable  stock,  kill  at  once  if  diseased. 
Doctoring  is  expensive  in  time  and  money. 


POULTRY  LICE 

Poultry  lice  cause  intense  itching  and  loss  of  condition  in  the  host, 
and  should  not  be  permitted  to  exist  in  any  up-to-date  poultry  house. 
Cases  are  cited  in  which  animals,  (horses,  etc.),  have  become  affected 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  211 


when  the  poultry  roosted  with  them.  The  removal  of  the  poultry  and 
the  use  of  insect  powder,  if  in  winter,  or  the  creolin  lotion  in  summer, 
together  with  the  plentiful  use  of  kerosene  or  hot  lime  wash,  will  over- 
come the  trouble.  Use  sulphur  lavishly  or  insect  powder  in  the  nests. 
Hen  houses  should  be  thoroughly  treated  twice  yearly  with  hot  lime 
wash,  the  roosts  and  nests  being  plentifully  dowsed  with  kerosene.  A 
teaspoonful  of  corrosive  sublimate  to  each  bucket  of  wash  will  kill  and 
keep  lice  out  of  the  henhouse. 


CHAPTER  XV. 


Practical  Application  of  Medicines 
and  Home  Remedies 


Almost  every  farmer  or  stock  owner  has  an  occasional  opportunity 
to  administer  medicine  of  some  kind  to  his  cattle  in  case  of  sickness  or 
otherwise.  For  this  purpose  various  methods  have  been  applied,  such 
as  passing  a  piece  of  garden  hose  down  the  throat  of  the  patient  to  avoid 
the  medicine  going  down  the  trachea  (wind-pipe)  and  into  the  lungs, 
where  it  usually  sets  up  a  severe  irritation  which  results  in  congestion 
or  inflammation  ,of  the  lungs.  The  piece  of  hose  is  passed  down  the 
throat  far  enough  to  pass  the  glottis  or  valve  which  protects  the  trachea, 
so  that  the  medicine  will  surely  pass  down  into  the  regular  alimentary 
canal.  At  the  upper  end  of  this  hose  is  attached  an  ordinary  funnel, 
so  that  the  medicine  can  easily  be  poured  into  the  hose.  This  practice 
looks  reasonable  and  simple,  but  does  not  work  quite  so  easily  as  it 
appears  to,  for  the  animal  will  always  fight  when  you  attempt  l<>  insert 
the  hose,  and  it  is  only  natural  for  her  to  do  so,  as  it  is  far  from  being 
what  she  is  used  to. 

The  less  variation  you  make  from  the  usual  practice  of  treating 
an  animal  the  better  she  takes  to  it.  The  simplest  method  is  the  most 
successful  method.  When  using  the  hose  and  funnel  you  must  confine 
the  animal  by  fastening  her  in  a  stanchion  or  another  secure  place  of 
confinement,  where  she  cannot  offer  much  resistance. 

The  most  common  and  probably  the  most  practical  way  is  the  r)ne 
displayed  at  the  head  of  this  article,  where  the  patient  is  treated  kindly 
by  soothing  words  and  gentle  petting  until  she  is  convinced  that  no 
harm  shall  befall  her.  The  animal  is  not  confined  at  all  if  of  a  gentle 
disposition,  and  if  the  contrary,  it  is  best  to  confine  her  in  her  own 
stanchion,  in  the  barn  where  she  feels  most  at  home  and  will  be  content. 
After  having  your  medicine  well  diluted  with  water,  which  is  avery 
important  point,  in  administering  medicine  to  ruminants,  or  animals 
with  four  stomachs,  such  as  the  cow,  sheep  and  goat,  you  place  it  in  a 
long  necked  wine  bottle  and  take  your  place  on  either  side  of  the  head. 
passing  your  arm  around  the  opposite  side  anterior  to  the  horns  and 
grasping  the  opposite  lower  jaw  firmly,  thereby  pressing  her   head 


214  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


Practical  method  of  administering  medicine;  to  cattle. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  215 


tightly  to  your  body  so  she  will  have  no  chance  to  swing  it  from  side  to 
side.  Raising  the  head  as  shown  in  the  illustration,  you  can 
now  easily  pour  the  medicine  down  into  her  mouth  without  exciting 
the  patient  and  she  will  oiifer  little  or  no  resistance. 


METHODS  TO   BE  AVOIDED 

Never  pull  out  the  patient's  tongue  while  you  are  giving  medicine, 
as  she  needs  it  to  perform  the  act  of  swallowing  to  prevent  the  medi- 
cine from  going  down  the  wrong  channel.  The  practice  of  having  an 
attendant  pinch  his  thumb  and  finger  into  the  nostrils  should  be  avoided 
above  all,  as  it  interferes  with  respiration  and  excites  the  animal,  where- 
by it  makes  an  effort  to  breathe  through  its  mouth,  thus  leaving  the 
glottis  open,  which  admits  the  fluid  into  the  trachea,  down  into  the 
lungs  and  frequently  leads  to  fatal  results. 


THE  NECESSITY  OF  FREELY  DILUTING  YOUR 
MEDICINE   IN   WATER 

Owing  to  the  complicated  anatomical  construction  ,of  a  cow's 
stomach,  which  is  divided  into  four  separate  stomachs  or  compart- 
ments, it  is  absolutely  necessary  to  dilute  your  medicines  largely,  say 
at  least  in  a  quart  or  two  of  water  for  each  dose,  so  that  the  fluid  will 
pass  into  the  reticulum  or  second  stomach,  which  is  the  natural  recep- 
tacle for  fluids.  If  it  were  given  in  the  form  of  a  mass,  bolis  or  semi- 
mass,  it  might  pass  into  the  rumen  with  the  unmasticated  food,  where 
it  is  liable  to  be  returned  to  the  mouth  during  rumination,  and  its 
peculiar  taste  would  prompt  the  patient  to  throw  it  out,  or  drop  it  from 
the  mouth,  without  its  having  a  chance  to  be  taken  into  the  system 
where  it  should  bring  about  its  desired  eiTect. 


216  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


MODE  OF  GIVING  MEDICINE 

Animals  are  all  more  or  less  difficult  to  give  medicine  to;  there- 
fore, the  stockman  must  be  careful  to  give  it  in  such  a  way  as  to  annoy 
the  patient  as  little  as  possible  and  yet  avoid  v^^asting  the  medicine. 
Different  methods  have  to  be  followed  with  the  -various  farm  animals. 
The  stronger  animals,  such  as  horses  and  cows,  require  a  certain 
amount  of  restraint  in  order  to  give  the  drugs  successfully. 

To  get  the  effect  of  medicine  they  must  be  introduced  into  the 
body. 

Medicines  are  taken  into  the  system  by  three  channels : 

1.  THROUGH  THE  DIGESTIVE  TRACT,  in  such  cases  being 
given  by  the  mouth,  in  the  form  of  powders,  drenches  or  balls,  and  per 
rectum,  by  injection  into  the  bowel. 

2.  THROUGH  THE  ORGANS  OF  RESPIRATION,  causing 
the  animal  to  breathe  the  drug,  this  is  known  as  the  inhalation  method, 
and  is  useful  in  such  diseases  as  strangles  (colt  distemper)  or  worms  in 
tlie  air  passages  (sheep  and  calves). 

:->.  THROUCjH  THP:  skin,  the  medicines  being  absorbed.  Iheie 
are  subdivisions  of  this,  the  absorptive  method,  the  first  one  of  which 
is  employed  by  stockmen,  the  other  being  used  by  the  veterinarian 
whenever  necessary.    They  are: 

(a)  Epidermically,  nibbing  into  the  skin  (epidermis)  the  general 
way  of  using  blisters. 

(b)  Endermically,  the  drug  being  apf)ltcd  under  tlie  skin.  The 
icnvel  and  seton  are  used  in  this  method. 

(c)  Hypodermically,  the  placing  of  the  drug  or  serum  under  the 
skin  or  into  the  tissues  by  the  aid"  of  the  hypodermic  syringe.  At  the 
present  time  the  professional  man  uses  this  method  in  the  giving  of 
cocaine,  morphine,  etc.,  the  testing  of  animals  with  tuberculin  and  mal- 
lein,  when  performing  prcventixe  inoculation  for  blackleg,  and  in  the 
use  of  serum. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  217 


GIVING  MEDICINES  TO  HORSES 

1.  Powders,  if  not  objectionable  to  the  animal,  may  be  given  in  the 
feed.  When  distasteful  may  be  mixed  with  molasses  and  placed  on 
the  back  of  the  tongue  with  a  spoon  or  wooden  paddle.  The  latter 
way  is  a  nice  method  of  giving  drugs  to  horses  suffering  with  sore 
throat,  etc. 

2.  Drenching  is  the  old  way  of  giving  fluids,  and  is  a  useful  way 
when  large  quantities  are  to  be  given.  Back  the  horse  in  a  single  stall 
and  raise  the  head  by  means  of  a  stable  fork  placed  through  the  nose 
band  of  the  headstall,  (halter),  or  better  take  a  hame  strap,  buckle  it, 
thus  making  a  loop;  slip  into  the  mouth  just  back  of  the  front  upper 
teeth,  then  raise  by  means  of  a  rope  or  fork  until  the  teeth  are  a  little 
above  the  horizontal.  The  medicine  which  is  in  a  tin,  hard  rubber,  or 
even  a  strong  glass  bottle  or  funnel,  is  poured  in  from  the  off  side.  The 
person  drenching  steadies  the  head  with  his  left  hand  on  the  headstall, 
which  should  be  slack  enough  to  let  the  mouth  open,  and  slowly  pours  in 
about  a  half  cupful  at  a  time.  IF  ANY  ATTEMPTS  AT  COUGH- 
ING ARE  MADE,  AT  ONCE  LET  THE  HEAD  DOWN.  Never 
sieze  the  tongue  or  pinch  the  nostrils  when  drenching.  If  the  animal 
does  not  swallow  readily  tickle  the  roof  of  the  mouth  with  one  or  two 
fingers.  In  some  cases  a  person  giving  the  drench  may  get  on  the 
horse's  back,  sitting  well  forward,  draw  the  head  round  to  the  off  side 
by  the  halter  with  the  left  hand  and  drench  with  the  bottle  in  the  right 
hand.  The  application  of  the  rope  or  the  noose  twitch  will  often  be 
sufficient. 

A  method  sometimes  used  in  drenching  sick  horses  is  to  give  the 
medicine  while  the  patient  is  lying  down.  The  operator  must  be  agile, 
strong  and  watchful.  A  halter  is  placed  on  the  animal  and  as  soon  as 
he  lies  down  the  halter  is  grasped  tightly  on  its  under  side  so  as  to  throw 
the  nose  of  the  horse  in  the  air,  the  poll  being  held  tight  to  the  ground. 
The  operator  will  be  at  the  back  of  the  horse  and  will  place  his  knee  on 
the  patient's  neck,  and  then  pour  the  drench  in  slowly  and  at  short 
intervals.  If  necessary  the  animal  may  be  thrown  and  the  head  tied 
to  a  surcingle.  Whenever  it  is  desired  to  restrain  a  horse  and  keep  him 
down  by  holding  his  head,  the  poll  should  be  held  to  the  ground,  the 
nose  up,  the  back  of  the  head  being  drawn  well  back. 

Fluids  in  any  quantities  may  be  given  with  a  metal  or  a  hard  rub- 
ber 2  ounce  dose  syringe,  (a  syringe  with  an  8  or  10  inch  long  nozzle 
is  preferable).  This  is  a  very  clean,  nice  method,  one  which  is  now 
almost  exclusively  practiced,  as  it  is  practical  and  the  patient  is  sure 
to  get  all  of  the  dose.    The  operator  stands  in  front  of  the  animal,  with 


218  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


his  left  hand  on  the  animal's  nose,  the  patient  being  held  firmly  by  an 
attendant  or  backed  into  a  single  stall.  The  long  nozzle  of  the  syringe 
is  then  inserted  into  the  mouth  through  the  left  dental  space  and  passed 
straight  down  the  center  of  the  tongue  its  full  length  when  the  dose 
is  discharged.  This  is  much  safer  and  more  satisfactory  than  giving 
halls.     Fluids  can  also  be  given  in  gelatin  capsules. 

BALLING — Considerable  dexterity  is  re(juired  to  properly  ball 
a  horse.  To  do  so  the  operator  stands  in  front  of  his  patient  and  with 
his  left  hand  gently  draws  the  tongue  forward  two  to  three  inches.  The 
right  hand  carrying  the  ball  resting  on  the  second  and  fourth  fingers, 
the  third  finger  on  top  of  it,  is  carried  back  in  a  straight  line  to  the 
root  of  the  tongue,  where  the  ball  is  left,  the  tongue  at  once  released 
and  the  head  withdrawn.  A  few  sips  of  water  may  be  given  and,  if 
properly  done,  the  ball  will  be  seen  to  travel  down  the  near  side  of  the 
neck. 


SHEEP 

Sheep  may  be  drenched  l)y  backing  into  a  corner,  getting  astride 
of  the  animal.  Elevate  the  head,  slightly  with  the  left  hand,  with  the 
right  hand  pour  in  the  fluid.  For  lambs  and  sheep  difficult  to  drench, 
the  operator  should  set  the  animal  up  on  its  romp,  with  its  head  between 
his  knees,  the  medicine  can  be  poured  in  with  little  risk  of  choking. 

PRECAUTIONS—Cattlc  and  sheep  arc  easily  choked  when 
drenching,  therefore,  it  must  be  remembered  that  to  avoid  loss, 
only  small  quantities  should  be  given  to  be  swallowed  at  one  time,  and 
if  coughing  occurs,  due  to  some  of  the  medicine  going  the  wrong  way, 
Ihe  head  must  at  once  be  lowered,  so  that  any  fluid  in  the  mouth  may 
run  out.  I  have  known  of  many  animals  killed  by  neglect  of  these 
precautions. 


PIGS 

I'igs  may  be  drenched  by  jnitting  a  noose  over  the  ujjper  part  of 
the  snout.  When  the  animal  will  hang  back  on  its  haunches  .and  s(|ueal, 
the  medicine  can  be  spooned  in  slowly,  figs  will  take  oil,  salts  and 
other  medicines  if  given  mixed  with  sweet  milk  in  the  trough. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  219 


SIMPLE  FARM  MEDICINES 

The  up-to-date  stockman  will  ha\e  his  chest  of  medicines  for  his 
stock,  not  with  the  idea  of  treating  an}-thing  or  everything,  but  for  the 
purpose  of  meeting  unexpected  conditions  and  for  the  treatment  of 
simple  diseases,  such  as  are  herein  described.  Before  any  person  can 
use  or  prescribe  medicines  intelligently  it  is  essential  that  they  under- 
stand the  actions  and  doses  of  those  medicines ;  not  only  is  it  essential 
that  the  stockman  know  something  about  medicines,  and  that  some- 
thing well ;  he  must  also  know  the  best  methods  of  giving  such  medi- 
cines. The  kernel  of  the  matter  is  that  the  stockman  must  be  an  ANI- 
MAL NURSE,  in  order  to  render  efficient  service  when  his  stock  are 
sick.  Medicines  are  often  classified  according  to  their  actions,  each 
class  being  given  a  distinctive  name.  The  utility  of  such  a  classifica- 
tion is  at  once  seen,  e.  g.,  an  animal  is  sick,  the  owner  instead  of  being 
told  to  use  a  specific  drug  such  as  iron,  is  advised  to  use  a  tonic  (feri- 
tone).  Running  over  the  list  of  drugs  in  his  farm  medicine  chest,  he 
remembers  that  he  has  such  a  drug  there  with  a  tonic  action,  and  uses 
it,  whereas,  had  he  not  understood  the  term,  the  animal  would  have 
had  to  go  untreated. 

With  a  view  of  relieving  the  farmer  or  stockman  from  the  neces- 
sity of  becoming  an  apothecary,  the  writer  simplifies  his  treatments  by 
advising  as  few  drugs  as  possible  and  only  those  which  are  the  latest 
and  most  reliable  for  each  particular  case.  Thus  the  stockman  is  not 
compelled  to  keep  on  hand  a  small  drug  store  and  must  not  necessarily 
also  be  a  therapeutist. 

NOTICE — When  recommending  a  remedy,  the  writer  frequentl}- 
specifies  some  specific  remedy,  such  as  National  Bovolax.  This  is  to 
assure  the  readers  that  the  said  drug  is  recognized  by  the  "National 
Live  Stock  Sanitary  Association",  as  being  the  most  reliable  and 
effective  agent  for  the  specific  purpose  for  which  it  is  being  prescribed. 
The  Elk's  brands  of  veterinary  remedies  are  also  recognized  by  the 
"National  Live  Stock  Sanitary  Association".  They  are  reliable  and 
up-to-date.  The  stockman  can  safely  add  such  as  are  here  recom- 
mended to  his  list  in  the  farm  medicine  chest. 


CHAPTER  XVL 

Miscellaneous 

DISINFECTION  OF  STABLES 

This  is  a  very  important  subject  for  the  stockman  to  understand 
as  he  can  by  this  means  do  more  to  limit  and  stamp  out  contagious 
diseases  than  by  any  other  method.  Carbohc  acid,  bichloride  of  mer- 
cury (corrosive  sublimate),  chloride  of  zinc  and  numerous  other  anti- 
septics, including-  creolin,  chloronaphtholeum,  zenoleum,  may 
be  used  for  this  purpose.  Empty  the  stables,  then  burn  up  all  bedding 
used  in  the  infected  barn.  Sprinkle  the  floors  with  sawdust  which  has 
been  soaked  with  a  ten  per  cent  solution  of  carbolic  acid,  or  a  1  to  1,000 
solution  of  corrosive  sublimate,  letting  it  remain  for  twenty-four  hours, 
then  rake  up  and  place  with  the  manure.  Sprinkle  the  floor  with  chlo- 
ride of  lime  or  some  of  the  antiseptics  mentioned;  flush  out  the  drains 
with  the  same  antiseptics.  Take  a  ten  per  cent  solution  of  hot  soft  soap 
and  water  and  scrub  out  stalls,  mangers,  feed  boxes,  etc.,  when  dry  use 
a  knapsack  sprayer  and  apply  hot  carbolic  whitewash  (crude  carbolic 
enough  to  make  a  three  to  five  per  cent  solution)  over  the  walls  and 
ceiling.  Sulphur  is  sometimes  burned  in  stables,  for  which  purpose 
one  pound  of  sulphur  is  needed  to  every  thousand  cubic  feet. 

Harness  should  be  washed  with  a  hot  soap  solution  and  oiled  after- 
ward. Disinfection  is  rendered  much  easier  if  the  floors  of  the  stables 
are  of  cement  and  the  fittings  of  iron.  After  the  disinfection  allow  lots 
of  light  and  pure  air  to  enter  and  do  not  allow  piles  of  manure,  etc.,  to 
accumulate  in  the  stable. 


THE  HORN  FLY  OF  CATTLE  (Grubs) 

The  Horn  Fly  is  very  common  in  some  seasons.  It  is  a  little,  black 
fly,  often  found  in  clusters  around  the  horn  base.  For  its  prevention 
bi-weekly  applications  of  fish  oil  containing  carbolic  acid,  one  ounce  to 
the  gallon  of  oil  and  applied  along  the  back  and  around  the  horns.  Its 
eft'ects  are  too  well  known  to  need  description.  The  use  of  this  mixture 
will  also  tend  to  keep  oft*  the  zvarhly  fly,  the  effects  of  which  are  seen  in 
the  warbles  found  on  the  backs  of  cattle.     When  removed  the  warble 


222  RURAL  VETERINARY  8ECRET8 


or  grub,  (larvae  of  the  fly)  should  be  at  once  destroyed.  Hides  are 
often  materially  injured  owing  to  attacks  of  this  fly  during  the  life 
of  the  animal.  Four  ounces  of  flowers  of  sulphur,  one  gill  spirits 
of  tar,  train  oil  one  quart,  mixed  and  applied  along  the  spine  once  a 
week  will  tend  to  prevent  the  ravages  of  this  fly. 


EXTERNAL  PARASITES  (Lice) 

Lice  are  the  common  epidermic  parasites  of  small  insects  which 
infect  all  farm  animals,  including  dogs  and  poultry.  They  make  their 
presence  known  by  causing  an  intense  itching  of  the  skin,  which  induces 
the  animal  to  rub  or  scratch  the  parts,  often  to  such  an  extent  as  to 
render  the  parts  bare  and  even  draw  blood.  The  lice  multiply  rapidly 
and  soon  become  general  in  a  herd.  A  herd  thus  afi:"ected  cannot  thrive 
until  the  little  mischief-makers  are  all  destroyed. 


TREATMENT 

The  most  convenient  way  to  destroy  the  parasites  is  to  place  a  few 
ounces  of  Louse  and  Fly  Destroyer  in  a  common  fly  spray  and  spray 
the  animals  once  daily  for  three  or  four  days  or  until  relieved.  This 
is  the  most  effective  way  to  destroy  lice  or  flies  and  is  not  expensive. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  223 


INTERNAL  PARASITES  (Bots) 

BOTS  are  the  larvae  of  gad-tlies,  which  lay  their  orange-colored 
eggs  on  the  legs  and  between  the  jaws  of  horses.  The  eggs  are  licked 
olif  or  fall  into  the  feed  and  are  thus  swallowed  by  the  horse,  where 
they  are  hatched  out  in  the  stomach,  where  the  larvae  (bot)  will  stay 
for  months,  later  being  passed  out  in  the  dung  to  be  hatched  out  as  the 
gad-fly,  so  well  known  to  horsemen  and  so  much  dreaded  by  their 
charges.  It  is  doubtful  if  any  horses  in  this  country  are  free  from  bots, 
post-mortems  invariably  showing  them  to  be  present  in  varying  num- 
bers. The  preventive  treatment  is  to  destroy  the  eggs.  A  cloth  damp- 
ened with  kerosene  will  tend  to  remove  them.  The  effect  of  bots  de- 
pends on  the  number  present;  if  few,  no  ill  effects  are  noticed;  but  if 
many,  the  horse  is  unthrifty,  suffers  from  indigestion  and  may  die 
from  their  effects  on  the  stomach  walls.  They  are  fastened  on  the 
stomach  walls  very  firmly  and  it  is  doubtful  whether  medicines  have 
much  effect.  Turpentine,  two  ounces  in  one  and  one-half  pints  of  new 
milk  three  mornings  in  succession,  given  on  an  empty  stomach,  will 
probably  be  as  effectual  as  any  drug.  Copperas  powders,  owing  to  their 
tonic  and  astringent  effect  on  the  mucous  membranes,  will  also  be  bene- 
ficial ;  tartar  emetic,  two  drams  in  food  daily  for  two  weeks  might  be 
used  in  place  of  the  drench. 


PIN  WORMS 

PIN  WORMS  are  small,  thin,  whip-like  worms,  one  to  one  and 
one-half  inches  long,  found  in  the  posterior  bowel,  (rectum).  While 
producing  little  disturbance  of  the  general  health,  they  manifest  them- 
selves as  a  rule  by  a  yellow,  waxy  matter  around  the  anus  and  by  rub- 
bing of  the  tail  and  hind  parts.  The  worms  may  also  be  found  in  or 
passed  with  the  excrement.  The  treatment  is  mainly  local,  by  means 
of  injections.  First  give  an  injection  to  clean  out  the  bowel,  and  follow 
it  with  one  of  salt  and  water,  one  ounce  of  salt  to  one-half  gallon  of 
water;  or  a  decoction  of  quassia  chips  may  be  used.  If  the  injections 
fail  to  remove  them,  internal  treatment  will  be  needed. 


224 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  225 


ROUND  WORMS 

ROUND  WORMS  are  the  larger  kind  usually  found  in  horses, 
and  when  full  grown  are  six  to  fourteen  inches  in  length.  They  usually 
inhabit  the  small  intestines;  when  many  are  present  the  animal  loses 
condition,  gets  pot-bellied,  has  a  rough  coat,  capricious  appetite,  shows 
a  tendency  to  eat  dirt,  with  occasionally  a  colic  or  diarrhoea,  and  pres- 
ence of  worms  in  the  dung.  The  riddance  of  a  horse  of  these  parasites 
is  not  very  difficult  if  a  thorough  effort  is  made  to  dislodge  them.  In 
order  to  get  the  best  effects  the  animal  should  be  starved  before  giving 
the  drugs,  which  may  be  as  follows : 

National  Vermifuge — 1  tablespoonful. 
Common  Charcoal — 3  tablespoonfuls. 

mixed  and  given  in  the  feed  three  times  a  day,  followed  by  a  dose  of 
aloes,  or : 

Two  ounces  turpentine,  one  pint  new  milk,  given  three  successive 
mornings  on  an  empty  stomach.  The  fourth  morning  give  two  drachms 
Tartar  Emetic  in  a  pint  of  raw  linseed  oil ;  if  the  horse  has  to  be  worked 
steadily  the  following  powders  will  be  useful : 

Powdered  Copperas — 1  ounce. 
Powdered  Bluestones — 1  ounce. 
Powdered  Sugar — 2  ounces. 

Mix  and  make  into  twelve  powders,  one  to  be  given  twice  daily  in  the 
feed. 

Worms  are  not  common  in  cattle ;  in  sheep  are  the  frequent  cause 
of  losses  and  occasionally  so  in  pigs. 

STOMACH  WORMS,  usually  found  in  lambs,  are  the  most 
serious  and  most  common.  They  are  very  small,  one-quarter  to 
one-third  of  an  inch  long,  pale  reddish  in  color,  and  are  found  in  the 
fourth  stomach  only.  Lambs  affected  are  thirsty,  pale  in  the  ^yes, 
lose  weight,  are  dull,  lose  their  appetite,  may  scour  or  eat  dirt.  Ben- 
zine or  gasoline,  two  to  four  drachms  in  six  ounces  of  new  milk, 
given  three  mornings  in  succession  on  an  empty  stomach,  have  been 
highly  recommended ;  creolin  and  milk  in  similar  doses  may  also  be 
used.  National  Vermifuge  for  sheep  should  be  mixed  vi^ith  plenty 
of  salt  and  placed  in  the  salt  troughs. 

TAPE  WORMS  when  present  cause  symptoms  similar  to  those 
described  for  stomach  worms.     In  addition,  paleness  of  the  skin  and 


226  BUBAL  VETEBINABY  SECBETS 


mucous  membrane,  brittleness  of  the  fleece,  loss  of  flesh,  voracious 
appetitie,  pieces  of  the  tape  worm  in  the  dung;  they  are  more  preva- 
lent in  wet  seasons  and  on  damp  pastures.  Turpentine  in  raw  milk  and 
a  decoction  of  pumpkin  seeds  are  old  and  tried  remedies ;  Santonine, 
as  much  as  will  lie  on  a  five-cent  piece,  or  tannate  of  pelletierine,  three 
to  five  grains,  are  new  remedies  recommended.  The  best  preventive 
treatment  is  to  change  the  pastures  and  crop  the  old  ones  for  a  few 
years. 


LONG  WORM 

A  long  worm  is  sometimes  found  in  the  intestines  of  pigs.  Unless 
in  considerable  numbers  they  seldom  cause  much  trouble.  If  suspected 
give  turpentine  in  milk  or  oil,  or  oil  of  wormseed. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  227 


DISEASES  OF  YOUNG  STOCK 

CONSTIPATION  is  a  common  trouble  in  foals  the  first  few 
days  after  birth.  The  food  of  the  dam  just  previous  to  delivery  not 
having  been  of  a  laxative  nature,  or  the  first  milk  (colostrum)  not 
being  taken  by  the  foal,  will  thus  account  for  this  trouble  in  the  major- 
ity of  cases.  Calves,  lambs,  and  pigs  are  rarely  troubled  as  they  usu- 
ally get  the  first  milk.  The  signs  of  this  trouble  are  straining,  rolling, 
lying  on  the  back,  collicky  symptoms,  the  belly  tucked  up;  the  foal 
sucking  in  a  half-hearted  way  and  the  non-passage  of  feces  are  also 
reliable  indications.  The  preferable  way  to  overcome  the  trouble  is  to 
diet  the  dam,  changing  to  food  of  a  more  laxative  nature,  e.  g.,  bran 
mashes  with  flax-seed,  as  the  use  of  purgatives  on  a  foal  of  such  a 
tender  age  is  extremely  dangerous.  The  finger  may  be  oiled  and  intro- 
duced into  the  rectum,  the  contents  of  a  dark,  tarry  ball-like  nature 
removed ;  or  a  cone  of  soap  may  be  placed  in  rectum  and  left  there. 
The  injection  of  one-half  ounce  of  glycerine  or  two  ounces  of  raw 
linseed  oil  in  two  or  three  ounces  of  water  is  very  useful  and  may  be 
used  in  preference  to  the  soap  or  oiled  finger.  Lambs  should  be 
watched  their  first  two  weeks  of  life  as  the  feces  tend  to  stick  to  the 
wool  around  the  anus  and  thus  form  an  obstacle  to  the  passage  of  the 
dung. 

SCOURS  (or  Diarrhoea)  is  as  a  rule  more  or  less  serious,  the 
contagious  form  in  calves,  terms  calf  cholera  or  dysentery,  being  espe- 
cially so.  The  common  cause  of  Scours  is  the  food,  either  as  to  its 
qualit}^  quantity,  or  regularity  in  giving  it.  In  foals  the  disease  is  often 
due  to  the  use  of  purgatives  to  overcome  the  preceding  trouble  (con- 
stipation) ;  the  drinking  of  warm,  stale  milk,  the  mare  being  worked 
and  the  foal  only  allowed  to  suck  at  long  intervals ;  too  rich  or  too 
much  milk.  We  may  then  consider  scours  in  any  animal  a  symptom  of 
indigestion,  not  as  a  disease  in  itself ;  the  looseness  of  the  bowels  being 
one  evidence  of  Nature's  endeavor  to  overcome  the  trouble.  In  calves 
especially  scouring  is  due  to  overfeeding,  or  feeding  at  too  long  inter- 
vals, and  the  use  of  milk  of  a  poor  quality.  Lambs  sometimes  scour 
if  the  ewes  are  on  pastures  of  a  watery  nature,  green  oats,  etc.  The 
disease  is  soon  evidenced  by  colicky  pains,  refusal  of  food,  scour  smell- 
ing passages,  the  passage  of  watery  feces  with  rapid  loss  of  strength. 
In  some  cases  curdled  milk  is  mixed  with  the  dung. 

The  causes  being  known,  the  first  thing  in  the  treatment  is  to  re- 


228  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 


move  those  causes ;  the  disease  being  seen  in  its  earUest  stages,  give  as 
one  dose : 

Elk's  Anti-Scour  Compound — 1  dram. 
Castor  Oil — 1  ounce. 

The  dose  may  be  larger  or  smaller  depending  on  the  size  of  the  animal. 

Lime  water  in  one  or  two  ounce  doses  fed  with  the  milk  is  useful 
in  overcoming  acidity  and  the  consequent  indigestion.  Foals  affected 
with  indigestion  due  to  the  dam's  milk  being  too  rich,  should  have  the 
supply  limited,  the  mare  being  milked  on  the  ground.  The  rich  condi- 
tion of  milk  for  calves  can  be  overcome  by  diluting  the  milk  with 
warm  water.  Raw  eggs  with  brandy  and  several  other  drugs  are  often 
recommended.  Subnitrate  of  bismuth  in  suitable  doses  is  a  very  valu- 
able drug  when  the  digestive  tract  of  young  animals  is  in  an  irritable 
condition. 


NAVEL-ILL 

NAVEL-ILL  is  rather  a  common  disease  of  foals,  occasionally  of 
calves  and  lambs.  The  measures  to  be  adopted  by  the  stockman  are 
those  of  a  preventive  character,  such  as  dressing  the  navel  with  Elk's 
Absorbing  Ointment;  have  the  mare  to  foal  on  the  grass  and  if  the 
disease  has  appeared  make  a  thorough  disinfection  of  the  foaling  or 
calving  box  or  the  lambing  pens,  as  the  case  may  be.  The  symptoms 
shown  are  feverishness  and  constipation,  loss  of  vigor,  being  quite  dull 
and  reluctant  to  suck,  lameness  with  swelling  of  one  or  more  joints. 
The  latter  symptoms,  lameness  and  possibly  a  swelling  of  a  joint,  mis- 
lead the  average  stockm.an.  He  thinks  the  foal  has  been  stepped  upon 
by  the  dam,  when  really  the  cause  is  the  introduction  of  germs  by  the 
navel.  The  navel,  instead  of  drying  up  and  dropping  oft",  remains  on 
and  is  clammy  to  the  touch  and  tap-like  in  appearance.  The  later 
stages,  exhibit  more  swelling  of  the  joints,  formation  of  abscesses  and 
exhaustion,  usually  terminating  in  death.  The  urine  may  trickle  from 
the  navel  in  this  disease.  The  early  employment  of  a  veterinarian  will 
only  be  profitable;  the  death  rate  is  high  on  account  of  skilled  treat- 
ment being  given  too  late.  Some  authorities  consider  this  trouble  as 
caused  by  the  same  germ  as  that  causing  contagious  abortion.  A  good 
preventive,  however,  is  to  smear  the  navel  with  Elk's  absorbing  Oint- 
ment, this  will  disinfect  the  navel  and  prevent  the  absorption  of  toxic 
germs. 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  229 

EXCESSIVE  SALIVATION 

See  Faulty  Teeth. 

HOME-MADE  STOCK  TONICS 

Every  farmer  can  prepare  his  own  stock  tonic,  save  150  per  cent 
and  have  a  better  article  than  can  be  purchased  on  the  market  at  enor- 
mous prices.  Besides,  you  can  make  it  twice  as  strong  and  will  know 
better  how  to  arrange  your  food  rations  when  you  know  exactly  the 
contents  and  action  of  the  tonic. 

See— How  to  Produce  More  Milk,  Etc. — Page  230  and  Page  55. 


230  RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS 

THE  SECRET  OF  PRODUCING  MORE  MILK  FROM 

COWS,  MORE  BEEF  FROM  CATTLE,  MORE 

MUTTON  FROM  SHEEP  AND  MORE 

PORK  FROM  SWINE 

The  problem  is  best  solved  by  taking  for  example  a  milch  cow, 
place  her  on  ordinary  dry  stable  food  for  three  or  four  months,  then 
turn  her  out  to  pasture  for  the  same  length  of  time  under  equal  environ- 
ments and  circumstances.  Then  compare  the  yield  and  general  condi- 
tions of  health  and  you  will  find  yourself  from  40  to  60  per  cent  ahead 
financially  in  favor  of  the  natural  grazing  while  on  pasture.  This  is 
accounted  for  in  many  different  ways ;  first,  when  the  cow  can  partake 
of  natural  food  and  water  at  liberty  she  will  govern  the  supply  and 
demand  of  the  system  herself.  If  she  has  taken  too  much  of  one  kind 
of  grass  or  herbs,  she  will  seek  nature's  remedy  to  counteract  it  with- 
out delay.  Secondly,  should  any  of  the  vital  organs  for  some  reason 
or  other  become  disordered,  there  appears  to  be  a  natural  instinct  in 
animals  to  seek  their  own  remedy.  Every  plant,  shrub  or  tree,  has  its 
special  physiological  action  upon  the  animal  system  and  the  cow  seems 
to  know  which  one  of  them  suits  her  case.  In  highly  nourished  animals 
under  artificial  surrounding  there  is  a  frequent  sluggishness  of  the  liver 
due  to  hyper-nutrition  and  the  constant  feeding  of  one  kind  of  food 
for  a  long  period.  This  leads  to  congestion  of  the  liver  and  sometimes 
to  inflammation  or  other  disorders  if  not  noticed  by  the  owner  and 
counteracted  in  time.  The  result  will  invariably  be  a  considerable 
loss  of  the  milk  yield  and  sometimes  drying  her  up  entirely.  These  con- 
ditions do  not  happen  when  the  cow  is  on  pasture  no  matter  how  rich 
the  food,  as  the  cow  will  seek  to  help  herself.  In  this  country  the 
dandelion  (or  buttercup)  cuts  an  important  figure  in  pastures.  It  is 
one  of  the  most  eft'ective  liver  regulators  for  herbivorous  animals. 
Some  of  us  have  watched  a  cow  dig  into  the  earth  and  eat  clay.  This 
is  an  indication  of  a  sour  stomach  or  indigestion  and  she  is  seeking 
nature's  remedy  to  counteract  it.  The  writer  could  enumerate  many 
of  these  advantages  if  space  would  permit,  but  will  say  that  every  intel- 
ligent and  successful  feeder  watches  the  needs  of  his  stock  and  supplies 
their  wants  while  stable  feeding.  For  this  purpose  a  stock  tonic  which 
contains  the  ingredients  of  which  his  stock  are  deprived,  while  confined 
to  the  stable  and  deprived  of  God's  green  grass,  is  absolutely  necessary 
in  order  to  keep  up  the  yield,  general  health,  and  prosperity  of  the  ani- 
mal body.  The  writer  has  made  this  subject  a  special  study  and  has 
found  that  a  simple  tonic  which  can  be  added  to  the  regular  daily  food 
ration  with  the  object  of  supplying  the  above  wants  and  keeping  farm 


RURAL  VETERINARY  SECRETS  231 


animals  as  thrifty  and  healthy  while  stable  fed,  as  they  would  be 
when  given  their  liberty  at  pasture.  This  tonic  you  can  prepare 
yourself  by  taking: 

Old  Process  Oil  Meal 85  lbs. 

Common  Salt 10  lbs. 

Sanguitone  Compound 5  lbs. 

Total 100  lbs. 

Mix  well  and  give  1  tablespoonful  in  food  twice  daily  to  adult 
horses  or  cattle ;  smaller  animals  take  less  according  to  size  and  age. 

Many  of  our  readers  have  given  it  a  trial  and  speak  very  highly 
of  it.  It  is  inexpensive  and  should  be  kept  in  use  during  the  entire 
stable  feeding  season. 

Sanguiton  is  a  new  and  most  effective  compound  which  contains 
all  the  medicinal  ingredients  required  by  nature  to  substitute  green 
grass  and  natural  pasture  conditions.  If  your  druggist  does  not  keep 
it,  write  to  the  author  of  "Rural  Veterinary  Secrets"  and  he  will  see 
that  you  are  supplied  without  delay. 


Alphabetical  Index 

A 

Page 

Abdominal  Dropsy 193 

Abortion 68 

Actenomicocis 127 

Actinomycocis 135 

Acute  Discharges  from  the  Nostrils 48 

Acute  Indigestion 53 

Acute  Nasal  Catarrh 17 

Afterbirth,  Retaining  the 75 

Air  Treatment,  for  Milk  Fever 83 

Alopecia 207 

Anemia 194 

Ankles,  Cocked 169 

Antony  of  Stomach 204 

Appetite,  Loss  of 52 

Apoplexy,  Cerebral   87 

Apoplexy  in  Poultry 209 

Apthous  Fever 133 

Ascites 193 

Attention  to  the  Newborn 98 

Azoturia 37 


B 

Baldness 207 

Barnyard  Itch 109 

Barrenness  .  .' 70 

Barrenness,  Cause  of 70 

Belly,  Water 193 

Big  Head 196 

Big  Leg 43 

Big  Neck 196 


234  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


Page 

Bleeding,  Control  of 182 

Bleeding  from  the  Nose 18 

Blister,  Inflammation  with 115 

Blood  Trouble 38 

Bloody  Milk 64 

Bloody  Urine " 206 

Blue  Milk 65 

Boar's  Tusks,  Removal  of 187 

Bog  Spavin 163 

Boils 113 

Bone  Spavin 160 

Bots 223 

Bound  Crop  in  Poultry 210 

Brain,  Concussion  of  the 88 

Brain,  Congestion  of  the 87 

Bronchitis,  Catarrhal 24 

Broken  Wind 42 

Bumble  Foot,  in  Poultry 210 


Caked  Udders 67 

Calculi,  Intestinal 54 

Calf  Scours 52 

Calks 137 

Canker,  in  Poultry 209 

Canker,  Sore  Mouth  in  Pigs 188 

Capped  Elbow 167 

Capped  Hocks 168 

Capped  Knees 151 

Casting  of  the  Withers 77 

Castration 175 

Catarrh,  Acute  Nasal 17 

Catarrh,  Nasal 23 

Catarrhal  Bronchitis   25 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  235 


Page 

Catarrhal  Laryngitis 20 

Cattle,  Contagious  Eye  Diseases  in 132 

Cattle,  Foot  Rot  in 1 56 

Cattle,  Horn  Fly  in 221 

Cattle,  Mange  on 113 

Cattle,  Rabies  in 125 

Cerebral  Apoplexy 87 

Chapped  Teats 117 

Choking 44,203 

Cholera,  Hog 185 

Cholera,  in  Poultry 209 

Chronic  Catarrhal  Bronchitis  '. 25 

Cocked  Ankles 169 

Coffin  Joint  Lameness 153 

Colic  in  Horses 53 

Collar  Galls 149 

Concussion  of  the  Brain 88 

Congestion  of  the  Brain 87 

Congestion  of  the  Liver 85 

Congestion  of  the  Udder 66 

Congestion  of  the  Skin  with  Small  Pimples  or  Papules 114 

Conjunctivitis 201 

Constipation 205 

Constipation  in  Pigs 187 

Contagious  Eye  Diseases  in  Cattle 132 

Contracted  Hoofs  of  Horses 170 

Corns 155 

Cow  Pox 128 

Cows,  Hard  Milking 76 

Cow's  Teats,  Warts  on 76 

Cribbing 48 

Crop  Bound,  in  Poultry 210 

Croupous  Laryngitis 21 

Curb 164 

Cuts 137 


236  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


D 

Page 

Dam,  Treatment  of  the 99 

Dandruff 207 

Decayed  Teeth 47 

Dehorning 173 

Diarrhea 204 

Diarrhea,  Infectious 189 

Diarrhea,  in  Poultry 210 

Discharges  from  the  Nostrils 48 

Disease  due  to  Mistakes  in  Feeding 40 

Disease,  Foot  and  Mouth 133 

Disease,  Navicular 153 

Disease,  Preventing  by  Feeding  for  Health  and  Profit 55 

Disease,  Scaly  Skin 109 

Disease,  Septic  Joint 190 

Diseases  Common  to  Sheep 191 

Diseases  of  the  Teeth 45 

Diseases  of  Young  Stock 227 

Disinfection  of  Stables 221 

Distemper,  Horse 131 

Dogs,  Mange  on 113 

Dogs,  Rabies  in ' 125 

Dropping  Wads  of  Hay 45 

Dropsy,  Abdominal 193 

Dy sentary 204 

E 

Eating,  Wool 197 

Eczema 115 

Eggs,  Soft  Shell 209 

Elbow,  Capped   167 

Epilepsy ;  88 

Epistaxis 18 

Erythema 107 

Evil,  Poll 143 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  237 


Page 

Examination  of  the  Hocks 160 

Excessive  Salivation 229 

External   Parasites 222 

Eye  Disease  in  Cattle 132 

Eye  Disease  in  Cattle,  Contagious 132 

Eyes,  Sore 201 

F 

Failure  to  Come  in  Heat 67 

Falling  Out  of  the  Wool 207 

False  Scab 207 

Faulty  and  Irregular  Teeth 49 

Feeding,  Diseases,  Due  to  Mistakes  in 40 

Feeding  Sick  Animals 39 

Fever,  Aphthous 1 33 

Fever,  Malarial 192 

Fever,  Milk 79 

Fever,  Mud  112 

Fistulous  Withers 141 

Foot  and  Limb  Troubles 145 

Foot  and  Mouth  Disease 133 

Foot  Bumble,  in  Poultry 210 

Foot  Rot  in  Cattle  and  Sheep 156 

Founder 43 

Fractured  Limbs 139 

Fractures 183 

Fractures,  Union  of 183 

Furuncles 113 

G 

Gall  Stones 86 

Galls,  Collar 149 

Garget 66 

Glands,  Milk,  and  their  Functions •. 60 


238  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


Page 

Goiter 196 

Grass  Staggers 204 

Grubs 221 


H 

Hard  ]\Iilking  Cows 7b 

Heat,  Failure  to  Come  in 67 

Heat,  Prostration  from 89 

Heaves  .  .  .  ^ 42 

Hematuria 206 

Hemorrhages,  Bleeding  from  the  Nose 18 

Hocks,  Capped 168 

Hocks,  Examination  of  the  160 

Hog  Cholera ■  185 

Hoofs  of  Horses,  Contracted 170 

Horn  Fly  of  Cattle 221 

Horse  Distemper 131 

Horse,  Lameness  in 145 

Horses,  Colic  in 53 

Horses,  Contracted  Hoofs  of 170 

Horses,  Itch  in 109 

Horses,  Mange  on 113 

Horses,  Summer  Sores  on 116 

Horses,  Unsoundnesses  in 48 

Hydremia,  Chlorosis  194 


I 

Ictcrahematuria 192 

Icterus,  Yellows 191 

Impaction  of  Rumen 204 

Indigestion 204 

Indigestion,  Acute S3 

Indigestion  in  Pigs 187 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  239 


Page 

Infectious  Diarrhea 189 

Inflammation  of  the  Lungs 30 

Inflammation  with  BHsters 115 

Influenza 131 

Internal  Parasites 223 

Intestinal  Calculi 54 

Inversion  of  the  Womb 77 

Irregular  Teeth 49 

Itch,  Barnyard 109 

Itch  in  Horses 109 


J 

Jaundice 191 

Jaundice,  Yellow 85 

Joint  Disease,  Septic 190 

Joint  111  of  Lambs 190 

Joints,  Open 143 

K 

Kicks 137 

Knees,  Capped 151 


L 

Lambs,  Joint  111  of 190 

Lambs,  Sore  Mouth  in 202 

Lambs,  White  Scours  of 189 

Lambs,  Woolless 196 

Lameness  in  a  Horse 145 

Lameness,  Coffin  Joint 153 

Laryngitis,  Catarrhal  .  .  '. 20 

Laryngitis,  Croupous 21 

Leg,  Big „ 43 


240  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


Page 

Leg  Weakness,  in  Poultry 210 

Leg  Weakness,  Rachitis 195 

Leucorrhea 68 

Lice 222 

Lice,  in  Poultry 210 

Limbs,  Fractured 139 

Liver,  Congestion  of  the 85 

Lockjaw 127 

Longworm 226 

Loss  of  Appetite 52 

Lump  Jaw 127 

Lungs,  Inflammation  of  the 30 

Luxation  of  the  Patella 157 

Lympangitis 41 

.     M 

Malarial  Fever 192 

Mange  on  Cattle 113 

Mange  on  Dogs 113 

Mange  on  Horses 113 

Meconium,  Retention  of  the 205 

Medicine,  Mode  of  Giving 216 

Medicine,  Necessity  of  Diluting  in  Water 215 

Medicines  and  Home  Remedies,  Practical  Application  of 213 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Horses 217 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Pigs 218 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Sheep 218 

Medicines,  Simple  Farm 219 

Milk,  Bloody 64 

Milk,  Blue   65 

Milk  Fever 79 

Milk  Glands  and  their  Functions 60 

Milk,  Stringy 65 

Milk,  Suppression  of ' 64 

Mud  Fever 112 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  241 


N 

Page 

Nail  Prick,  How  to  Treat 171 

Nasal  Catarrh 23 

Nasal  Catarrh,  Acute 17 

Nasal  Polypi 19 

Navel  Disease,  of  Colts  and  Calves 38 

Navel  111 190,  228 

Navicular  Disease 153 

Neck,  Big 196 

Neck,  Sore 171 

Necrotic  Stomatitis 202 

Nettle  Rash 110 

Newborn,  Attention  to  the 98 

Nose,  Bleeding  from  the 18 

Nostrils,  Discharges  from  the 48 

Nostrils,  Acute  Discharges  from  the 48 

O 

Oezana 23 

Open  Joints 143 

Ophthalmia 201 

Ophthalmia,  Periodic 133 


Papillomata 118 

Paralysis 91,  187,  206 

Parasites,  External 222 

Parasites,  Internal 223 

Parturient  Paresis 79 

Parturition,  the  Time  of 93 

Patella,  Luxation  of  the 157 

Paricarditis,  Traumatic,  of  the  Ox 35 

Periodic  Opthalmia 133 


242  ALPHABETICAL  IXDEX 


Page 

Peritonitis 193 

Pigs,  Canker  Sore  Mouth  in  Young 188 

Pigs,  Constipation  in 187 

Pigs,  Indigestion  in 187 

Pigs,  Rheumatism  in 189 

Pigs,  Thumps  in 187 

Pin  Worms 223 

Pityriasis 109 

Placenta 75 

Pleuritis 27 

Pneumonia 30 

Poll  Evil 143 

Polypi,  Nasal 19 

Pox,  Cow 128 

Pox,  Sheep 135 

Preventing  Disease  by  Feeding  for  Health  and  Profit 55 

Pricks  from  Shoeing 1 54 

Prostration  from  Heat 89 


R 

Rabies  in  Dogs  and  Cattle 125 

Rachitis,  Leg  Weakness 195 

Rash  Nettle 110 

Removal  of  the  Boar's  Tusks 187 

Retaining  the  Afterbirth 75 

Retention  of  the  Meconium 205 

Rheumatism 196 

Rheumatism  in  Pigs 189 

Rhinitis,  Acute  Coryza 17 

Rickets 195 

Ringbone 152 

Ringworms 109 

Roaring 33 

Roundworms 22~> 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  243 


Page 

Roup,  in  Poultry 209 

Rumen,  Impartion  of 204 

Ruptures 179 


Salivation,  Excessive 229 

Scab,  False 207 

Scab,  Tallow 207 

Scabby  Teats 76 

Scaly  Skin  Disease 109 

Scours,  Calf 52 

Scratches 112 

Secret  of  Increasing  the  Flow^  of  Milk  in  a  Dairy  Cow 78 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Beef  from  Cattle 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Milk  from  Cows 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Mutton  from  Sheep 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Pork  from  Swine 230 

Septic  Joint  Disease 190 

Sheep,  Diseases  Common  to 191 

Sheep,  Foot  Rot  in 156 

Sheep  Pox 135 

Shoeboil 167 

Shoeing,  Pricks  while 154 

Shoulderslip 149 

Shoulder,  Sore 149 

Sick  Animals,  Feeding 39 

Sidebones 153 

Soft  Shell  Eggs 209 

Skin  Disease,  Scaly 109 

Sore  Eyes 201 

Sore  Eyes  and  Pip,  in  Poultry 210 

Sore  Mouth  of  Lambs 202 

Sore  Mouth  of  Young  Pigs 188 

Sore  Neck 171 


244  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


Page 

Sore  Shoulder 149 

Spavin 159 

Spavin,  Bog : .   163 

Spavin,  Bone 160 

Spavin,  Test 147 

Spaying 178 

Splints 151 

Stables,  Disinfection  of 221 

Staggers,  Grass 204 

Stifle  Out 157 

Stock  Tonics,  Home  made 229 

Stomach,  Antony  of 204 

Stomach  Worms 225 

Stomatitis 202 

Stones,  Gall 86 

Strangles 131 

Stringhalt 166 

Stringy  Milk 65 

Summer  Sores  on  Horses 116 

Sunstroke 89 

Suppression  of  Milk 64 

Surfeit 110 

Sweeny 149 


T 

Tallow  Scab 207 

Tape  Worms 225 

Tapping  of  the  First  Stomach  or  Paunch 174 

Teats,  Chapped 117 

Teats,  Scabby 76 

Teats,  Warts  on 76 

Teeth,  Decayed 47 

Teeth,  Diseases  of  the 45 

Teeth,  Faulty  and  Irregular 49 


ALPHABETICAL  INDEX  245 


Page 

Teeth,  Wolf 46 

Test,  Spavin 147 

Tetanus  . 127 

Thoroug-hpin 163 

Thumps  in  Pigs 187 

Thrush 169,  202 

Time  of  Parturition 93 

Traumatic  Pericarditis  of  the  Ox 35 

Treatment,  Air 83 

Treatment  of  the  Dam 99 

Tuberculosis 1 19 


U 

Udders,  Caked 67 

Udders,  Congestion  of 66 

Union  of  Fractures 183 

Unsoundnesses  in  Horses 48 

Urinary  Troubles 86 

Urine,  Bloody 206 

Urticaria 110 


V 

Variola  Ovina 135 

W 

Warts 118 

Warts  on  Cow's  Teats 76 

Water  Belly 193 

Weakness,  Leg 210 

White  Scours  of  Lambs 189 

Wind,  Broken 42 


246  ALPHABETICAL  INDEX 


Page 

Windsucking 48 

Wire  Cuts 137 

AVithers,  Casting  of  the 77 

Withers,  Fistulous 141 

Womb,  Inversion  of  the 77 

Wolf  Teeth 46 

Wool  Eating 197 

Wool,  Falling  out  of  the 207 

Woolless  Lambs 196 

Worm,  Long 226 

Worms,  Pin 223 

Worms,  Ring 109 

Worms,  Round 223 

Worms,  Stomach 225 

Worms,  Tape 225 

Wounds 137 

Wounds,  General  Treatment  of 182 


Y 

Yellow  Jaundice 85 

Young  Stock,  Diseases  of 227 


Index  by  Chapters 


CHAPTER  I. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Respiratory  Organs. 

Page 

Acute  Nasal  Catarrh 17 

Bleeding  from  the  Nose 18 

Bronchitis,  Catarrhal 24 

Catarrh,  Acute  Nasal 17 

Catarrh,  Nasal 23 

Catarrhal  Bronchitis 25 

Catarrhal  Laryngitis 20 

Chronic  Catarrhal  Bronchitis 25 

Croupous  Laryngitis 21 

Epistaxis 18 

Hemorrhages,  Bleeding  from  the  Nose 18 

Inflammation  of  the  Lungs 30 

Laryngitis,  Catarrhal 20 

Laryngitis,  Croupous 21 

Lungs,  Inflammation  of  the 30 

Nasal  Catarrh 23 

Nasal  Catarrh,  Acute 17 

Nasal  Polypi 19 

Oezana 23 

Pleuritis 27 

Pneumonia 30 

Polypi,  Nasal 19 

Rhinitis,  Acute  Coryza 17 

Roaring 33 

CHAPTER  II. 
Diseases  Common  to  the  Circulatory  Organs. 

Azoturia 37 

Blood  Trouble 38 


248  INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS 


Page 

Xavel  Disease,  of  Colts  and  Calves 38 

Paricarditis,  Traumatic,  of  the  Ox 35 

Traumatic  Pericarditis  of  the  Ox 35 

CHAPTER  III. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Digestive  Organs. 

Acute  Discharges  from  the  Nostrils 48 

Acute  Indigestion 53 

x\ppetite,  Loss  of 52 

Big  Leg 43 

Broken  Wind 42 

Calf  Scours 52 

Calculi,  Intestinal 54 

Choking 44 

Colic  in  Horses 53 

Cribbing 48 

Decayed  Teeth 47 

Discharges  from  the  Nostrils 48 

Disease  due  to  Mistakes  in  Feeding 40 

Diseases  of  the  Teeth 45 

Dropping  Wads  of  Hay 45 

Faulty  and  Irregular  Teeth 49 

Feeding,  Diseases,  Due  to  Mistakes  in 40 

Feeding  Sick  Animals 39 

Founder 43 

Heaves 42 

Horses,  Colic  in 53 

Horses,  Unsoundnesses  in 48 

Indigestion,  Acute 53 

Intestinal  Calculi 54 

Leg,  Big 43 

Loss  of  Appetite 5- 

Lympangitis -H 

Nostrils,  Acute  Discharges  from  the -^8 


INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS  249 


Paue 


Nostrils,  Discharges  from  the 48 

Preventing  Disease  by  Feeding  for  Health  and  Profit 55 

Scours,  Calf 52 

Sick  Animals,  Feeding 39 

Teeth,  Decayed 47 

Teeth,  Diseases  of  the 45 

Teeth,  Faulty  and  Irregular 49 

Teeth,  Wolf 46 

Unsoundnesses  in  Horses 48 

Wind,  Broken 42 

Windsucking 48 

Wolf  Teeth 46 

CHAPTER  IV. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Reproductive  Organs. 

Abortion 68 

Afterbirth,  Retaining  the 75 

Air  Treatment,  for  Milk  Fever S3 

Barrenness 70 

Barrenness,  Cause  of 70 

Bloody  Milk 64 

Blue  Milk 65 

Caked  Udders 67 

Casting  of  the  Withers 77 

Congestion  of  the  Udder 66 

Cows,  Hard  Milking 76 

Cow's  Teats,  Warts  on 76 

Failure  to  Come  in  Heat 67 

Fever,  Milk 79 

Garget 66 

Glands,  Milk,  and  their  Functions 60 

Hard  Milking  Cows 76 

Heat,  Failure  to  Come  in 67 

Inversion  of  the  Womb 77 


250  INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS 


Page 

Leucorrhea 68 

Milk,  Bloody 64 

Milk,  Blue  65 

Milk  Fever 79 

Milk  Glands  and  their  Functions 60 

Milk,  Stringy 65 

Milk,  Suppression  of 64 

Parturient  Paresis 79 

Placenta 75 

Retaining  the  Afterbirth 7S 

Scabby  Teats 76 

Secret  of  Increasing  the  Flow  of  Milk  in  a  Dairy  Cow 78 

Stringy  Milk 65 

Suppression  of  Milk 64 

Teats,  Scabby 76 

Treatment,  Air 83 

Udders,  Congestion  of 66 

Udders,  Caked 67 

Warts  on  Cow's  Teats 76 

Withers,  Casting  of  the 77 

Womb,  Inversion  of  the 77 


CHAPTER  V. 
Diseases  Common  to  the  Liver  and  Kidneys. 

Congestion  of  the  Liver 85 

Gall  Stones 86 

Jaundice,  Yellow 85 

Liver,  Congestion  of  the 85 

Stones,  Gall 86 

Urinary  Troubles 86 

Yellow  Jaundice 85 


INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS  251 

CHAPTER  VI. 

Diseases  Common  to  the  Brain  and  Nervous  System. 

Page 

Apoplexy,  Cerebral   87 

Brain,  Concussion  of  the 88 

Brain,  Congestion  of  the 87 

Cerebral  Apoplexy 87 

Concussion  of  the  Brain 88 

Congestion  of  the  Brain 87 

Epilepsy .' 88 

Heat,  Prostration  from 89 

Paralysis 91 

Prostration  from  Heat 89 

Sunstroke 89 

CHAPTER  VII. 

Practical  Aid  in  Difficult  Parturition. 

Attention  to  the  Newborn 98 

Dam,  Treatment  of  the 99 

Newborn,  Attention  to  the 98 

Parturition,  the  Time  of 93 

Time  of  Parturition 93 

Treatment  of  the  Dam 99 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

Common  Diseases  of  the  Skin. 

Barnyard  Itch 109 

BHster,  Inflammation  with 115 

Boils 113 

Cattle,  Mange  on 113 

Chapped  Teats 117 

Congestion  of  the  Skin  with  Small  Pimples  or  Papules 114 

Dogs,  Mange  on 113 

Eczema 115 


252  INDEX  BY  CHAPTERS 


Page 

Erythema 107 

Fever,  Mud   112 

Furuncles 113 

Horses,  Itch  in 109 

Horses,  Mange  on 113 

Horses,  Summer  Sores  on 116 

Itch,  Barnyard 109 

Itch  in  Horses 109 

Mange  on  Cattle 113 

Mange  on  Dogs 113 

Mange  on  Horses 113 

Mud  Fever 112 

Nettle  Rash 110 

Papillomata 118 

Pityriasis 109 

Rash  Nettle 110 

Ringworms 109 

Scaly  Skin  Disease 109 

Scratches 112 

Skin  Disease,  Scaly  109 

Summer  Sores  on  Horses 116 

Surfeit 110 

Teats,  Chapped 117 

Urticaria 110 

Warts 118 

Worms,  Ring 109 

CHAPTER  IX. 

Contagious  and  Infectious  Diseases. 

Actenomicocis 127 

Actinomycocis 135 

Apthous  Fever 133 

Cattle,  Contagious  Eye  Diseases  in 132 

Cattle,  Rabies  in 125 


INDEX  BY  CHAPTERS  253 


Pase 


Contagious  Eye  Diseases  in  Cattle 132 

Cow  Pox 128 

Disease,  Foot  and  Mouth 133 

Distemper,  Horse 131 

Dog-s,  Rabies  in 125 

Eye  Disease  in  Cattle 132 

Eye  Disease  in  Cattle,  Contagious 132 

Fever,  Aphthous 133 

Foot  and  Mouth  Disease 133 

Horse  Distemper 131 

Influenza 131 

Lockjaw 127 

Lump  Jaw 127 

Ophthalmia,  Periodic ,  . .  .  133 

Periodic  Opthalmia 133 

Pox,  Cow 128 

Pox,  Sheep 135 

Rabies  in  Dogs  and  Cattle 125 

Sheep  Pox 135 

Strangles 131 

Tetanus 127 

Tuberculosi  s 119 

Variola  Ovina 135 


CHAPTER  X. 

Wounds  and  Fractures. 

Calks 137 

Cuts 137 

Evil,  Poll 143 

Fistulous  Withers ■ 141 

Fractured  Limbs 139 

Joints,  Open 143 

Kicks 137 

Limbs,  Fractured 139 


254  INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS 

Page 

Open  Joints 143 

Poll  Evil 143 

Wire  Cuts 137 

Withers,  Fistulous 141 

Wounds 137 

CHAPTER  XI. 
Diseases  Common  to  the  Muscles  and  Extremities. 

Ankles,  Cocked 169 

Bog  Spavin 163 

Bone  Spavin 160 

Capped  Elbow 167 

Capped  Hocks 168 

Capped  Knees 151 

Cocked  Ankles 169 

Coffin  Joint  Lameness 153 

Collar  Galls 149 

Contracted  Hoofs  of  Horses 170 

Corns 155 

Curb 164 

Disease,  Navicular 153 

Elbow,  Capped  167 

Examination  of  the  Hocks 160 

Foot  and  Limb  Troubles 145 

Foot  Rot  in  Cattle  and  Sheep 156 

Galls,  Collar 149 

Hocks,  Capped 168 

Hocks,  Examination  of  the 160 

Hoofs  of  Horses,  Contracted 170 

Horse,  Lameness  in 145 

Knees,  Capped   151 

Lameness,  Coffin  Joint 153 

Lameness  in  a  Horse 145 

Luxation  of  the  Patella 157 


INDEX  BY  CHAPTERS  255 


Page 

Nail  Prick,  How  to  Treat 171 

Navicular  Disease 153 

Neck,  Sore 171 

Patella,  Luxation  of  the 157 

Pricks  from  Shoeing 1 54 

Ringbone 152 

Shoeboil 167 

Shoeing,  Pricks  while 154 

Shoulderslip 149 

Shoulder,  Sore 149 

Sidebones 1 53 

Sore  Neck 171 

Sore  Shoulder 149 

Spavin 159 

Spavin,  Bog 163 

Spavin,  Bone 160 

Spavin,  Test 147 

Splints 151 

Stifle  Out 157 

Stringhalt • 166 

Sweeny 149 

Test,  Spavin 147 

Thoroughpin 163 

Thrush 169 

CHAPTER  XII. 

Common  Farm  Operations. 

Bleeding,  Control  of ". 182 

Castration 175 

Dehorning 173 

Fractures 183 

Fractures,  Union  of 183 

Ruptures 179 

Spaying 178 


256  INDEX  BY  CHAPTERS 


Pago 

Tapping  of  the  First  Stomach  or  Paunch 174 

Union  of  Fractures 183 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

Diseases  Common  to  Swine  and  Sheep. 

Abdominal  Dropsy 193 

Anemia 194 

Antony  of  Stomach 204 

Ascites 193 

Alopecia 207 

Baldness 207 

Belly,  Water 193 

Big  Head 196 

Big  Neck 196 

Bloody  Urine 206 

Boar's  Tusks,  Removal  of 187 

Canker,  Sore  Mouth  in  Pigs 188 

Choking 203 

Cholera,  Hog 185 

Conjunctivitis 201 

Constipation 20o 

Constipation  in  Pigs 187 

Dandruff ■. 207 

Diarrhea 20-1 

Diarrhea,  Infectious 18^) 

Disease,  Septic  Joint 190 

Diseases  Common  to  Sheep 191 

Dropsy,  Abdominal 193 

Dysentary 204 

Eating,  Wool 197 

Eyes,  Sore 201 

Falling  Out  of  the  Wool 207 

False  Scab 207 

Fever.  Malarial  192 


INDEX   BY   CHAPTEBS  257 


Pago 

Goiter 196 

Grass  Staggers 204 

Hematuria 20(^ 

Hog  Cholera 185 

Icterahematuria 192 

Icterus,  Yellows 191 

Indigestion 204 

Indigestion  in  Pigs 187 

Infectious  Diarrhea 189 

Impaction  of  Rumen 20  I 

Jaundice 191 

Joint  Disease,  Septic   190 

joint  111  of  Lambs 190. 

Lambs,  Joint  111  of 190 

Lambs,  Sore  Mouth  in 202 

Lambs,  White  Scours  of 189 

Lambs,  Woolless 196 

Leg  Weakness,  Rachitis 195 

Malarial  Fever 192 

Meconium,  Retention  of  the 205 

Navel  111 190 

Neck,  Big 196 

Necrotic  Stomatitis 202 

Ophthalmia .' 201 

Paralysis 187.  206 

Peritonitis 193 

Pigs,  Canker  Sore  Mouth  in  Young 188 

Pigs,  Constipation  in 18/ 

Pigs,  Indigestion  in 187 

Pigs,  Rheumatism  in 189 

Pigs,  Thumps  in 187 

Rachitis,  Leg  Weakness 195 

Removal  of  the  Boar's  Tusks 187 

Retention  of  the  Meconium   205 

Rheumatism 196 

Rheumatism  in  Pigs 1 89 


258  I^DEX  BY  CHAPTERS 


Page 

Rickets 195 

Rumen,  Impartion  of 204 

Scab,  False 207 

Scab,  Tallow 207 

Septic  Joint  Disease 190 

Sheep,  Diseases  Common  to 191 

Sore  Eyes 201 

Sore  Mouth  of  Lambs 202 

Staggers,  Grass 204 

Stomach,  Antony  of 204 

Stomatitis 202 

Tallow  Scab 207 

Thrush 202 

Thumps  in  Pigs 187 

Urine,  Bloody 20(j 

Water  Belly 193 

White  Scours  of  Lambs 189 

Wool  Eating 197 

Wool,  Falling  out  of  the 207 

Woolless  Lambs 196 

CHAPTER  XIV. 
Diseases  Common  to  Poultry, 

Apoplexy  in  Poultry    209 

Bound  Crop  in  Poultry 210 

Bumble  Foot,  in  Poultrx   210 

Canker,  in  Poultry 209 

Cholera,  in  Poultry 20^) 

Crop  Bound,  in  Poultry 210 

Diarrhea,  in  Poultry 210 

Eggs,  Soft  Shell   2a' 

Foot  Bumble,  in  Poultry 210 

Leg  Weakness,  in  Poultry  . 210 

Lice,  in  Pniltrv  .   /. 210 


INDEX  BY   CHAPTIJRS  259 


'nge 


l-loup,  in  Poultry 209 

Soft  Shell  Eggs' 209 

Sore  Eyes  and  Pip,  in  Poultry 210 

Weakness,  Leg 210 


CHAPTER  XV. 

Practical  Application  of  Medicines  and   Home   Remedies. 

Medicine,  Mode  of  Giving 210 

Medicine,  Necessity  of  Diluting  in  W  atcr 215 

Medicines  and  Home  Remedies,  Practical  Application  of 213 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Horses 217 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Pigs 218 

Medicines,  Giving,  to  Sheep 218 

Medicines,  Simple  Farm 219 

CHAPTER  XVI. 
Miscellaneous. 

Bots 22^ 

Cattle,  liorn  Fly  in 221 

Diseases  of  Young  Stock 227 

Disinfection  of  Stables 221 

Excessive  Salivation 229 

External    Parasites 222 

Grubs 221 

Horn  Fly  of  Cattle 221 

Internal  Parasites 223 

Lice 222 

Longw^orm .  ,  226 

Navel  111 ' ; 228 

Parasites,  External 222 

Parasites,  Internal 223 

Pin  Worms 223 

Roundworms  , 225 


260  INDEX  BY   CHAPTERS 


Pago 

Salivation,  Excessive 229 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Beef  from  Cattle 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Milk  from  Cow^s 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Mutton  from  Sheep 230 

Secret  of  Producing  More  Pork  from  Swine 230 

Stables,  Disinfection  of 221 

Stock  Tonics,  Home  made 229 

Stomach  Worms 225 

Tape  Worms 225 

Worm,  Long 226 

Worms,  Pin 223 

Worms,  Round 223 

Worms,  Stomach 225 

Worms,  Tape 225 

Young  Stock,  Diseases  of 227 


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